jury

jury

a jury is a group of randomly selected members of the community who represent community views, values and standards in determining a verdict.

amount of jurors in a civil trial

usually consists of 6 jurors in civil trials, up to 8 empaneled for longer trials.

juries role in civil trial

to deliver a verdict by listening to the evidence, determining its value, and deciding whether the plaintiff has met their standard of proof.in certain cases the jury is also responsible for calculating damages

availability

jury is not mandatory or automatically used in civil law. either party may request a jury during pleadings, or the judge may decide if a jury is required. if one party doesnt want a jury, they must make a submission to the judge, who can decide whether a jury will be used. the party who requests a jury will typically pay the fees related to the jury

roles: to act impartially

approach the case with an open mind without any preconceived notions. Must not conduct research or their own investigations (only consider the evidence presented in the court). keep deliberations confidential. dont coerce other jury members

roles: to listen to and consider the evidence

actively listen to evidence and submissions presented by both parties and take notes if required. concentrate and understand the evidence. consider the value and reliability of the evidence

roles: determine and deliver a verdict

debate the evidence, decide the facts of the case based on evidence presented, consider any doubts they have about the case and whether the parties met the burden/standard of proof, attempt to reach a unanimous verdict, deliver the verdict to the judge

roles: determine a remedy

typically required to determine a remedy except in certain cases such as defamation