Civil Trials and Jury Selection

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to civil trials and jury selection.

Venire

The panel of jurors summoned for jury duty.

Peremptory Challenge

A legal right to dismiss a juror without stating a reason, limited by rules against dismissal based on race and gender.

Challenge for Cause

A motion to dismiss a juror based on a valid reason, such as demonstrated bias.

Burden of Proof

The obligation to present evidence to support one's claim; in civil cases, the plaintiff has the burden of proof.

Opening Statement

An introductory statement made by the attorneys outlining what they intend to prove during the trial.

Cross Examination

The questioning of a witness by the opposing party to challenge the witness's testimony.

Rebuttal

Evidence or argument presented to contradict or disprove a prior statement or evidence.

Jury Instructions

Directions given by the judge to the jury regarding the law applicable to the case.

Expert Witness

A person qualified to give testimony due to their expertise in a particular area relevant to the case.

Directed Verdict

A ruling made by a judge, typically halting a trial on the grounds that the opposing party has not proved the case.

Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict

A judge's decision to reverse a jury's verdict when it is not supported by the evidence.

Appeal

A process for seeking a higher court's review of a lower court’s decision, typically based on claims of legal error.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Methods other than litigation, such as mediation or arbitration, used to resolve disputes.