JURY SHOPPING Meaning and
Definition
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Jury shopping refers to the practice of prosecuting attorneys or litigants attempting to select a specific jury that is believed to be favorable to their side of the case. It involves strategically examining potential jurors during the jury selection process and seeking to choose individuals who are more likely to be sympathetic or biased in favor of the attorney's client.
In this context, jury shopping can occur through various means, such as conducting extensive research on potential jurors' personal backgrounds, prior experiences, profession, or affiliations. The goal is to identify jurors who may hold certain predispositions or beliefs that align with the litigant's case, as well as eliminate those who may have strong biases against their position.
Jury shopping is generally considered an unethical practice, as it undermines the principles of justice, impartiality, and fairness that form the foundation of a democratic legal system. It tilts the balance of power in favor of the party engaging in this maneuver, potentially compromising the integrity of the legal process.
To prevent and discourage jury shopping, courts have instituted rules and protocols in jury selection procedures. Attorneys and judges are expected to ensure an unbiased and diverse jury based on objective criteria. This includes random selection from a pool of potential jurors and thorough questioning during voir dire, the process in which attorneys or the court screen prospective jurors for potential bias or conflicts of interest.
Overall, jury shopping is seen as an unethical tactic that manipulates the legal system and compromises the principles of fairness and justice. Its occurrence undermines the public's trust in the impartiality of the judicial process.
Common Misspellings for JURY SHOPPING
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Etymology of JURY SHOPPING
The term "jury shopping" is composed of two words: "jury" and "shopping".
The word "jury" originates from the Latin "jurare", which means "to swear". It initially referred to a group of individuals who took an oath to make decisions based on evidence presented in a court of law. The concept of a jury can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome.
The word "shopping" comes from the Old English word "sceoppa", which means "to obtain provisions". Over time, it evolved to mean selecting or choosing items or services for purchase.
When combined, "jury shopping" refers to the act of intentionally seeking a specific jury for a trial. It involves attempting to influence the outcome of the trial by selecting a jury that is perceived to be more favorable to one's case. This practice is often employed by attorneys through tactics like venue selection, juror profiling, and challenges during jury selection.
