Jury Dynamics

Abstract

Generally, the jury can be trusted to make a competent decision at trial, using the strength of evidence to render a verdict. Most often, judges agree with the jury's rendered verdict. Thus, the jury's decision is largely a reasonable, sound decision. However, the jury can be influenced by extralegal information and biases, and understanding the dynamics of deliberation may help us understand when these biases are likely to manifest in the jury's decision. In addition, reforming the structure of the trial to eliminate biased jurors and assist jurors in making better decisions may increase the quality of the jury's decision.