Jury Selection

Criminal trial:
- 12 jury members
- Aged 18-70
- Randomly selected
- Excusal
o Previous service in the past year
o Health
o Financial hardship
o Against religion
o Personal commitments

Trial Process
Both the prosecution and defence can call witnesses to support the arguments they make
1) The prosecution is the first to call witnesses and present evidence (examination in
chief)
2) Defence cross-examines the witnesses.
3) Prosecution re-examines each witness to solidate any uncertainties.
4) After prosecution has called all witnesses, the defence can call witnesses and present
evidence.
5) The same process is repeated for the defence’s evidence.
6) Jury considers the verdict and is announced to the court.

Majority Verdicts – at least 11/12 of the jury agree.

for some trials the defendant can be found guilty.

Unanimous Verdicts – all jurors collectively agree.

required for murder.

Retrial – jury is unable to reach a verdict

Found not guilty:

Accused is acquitted.

Found guilty:
Accused is convicted.

Unable to reach a verdict:

Jury is discharges and the discretion whether to order a retrial is exercised.