The Role of Extralegal Factors in Jury Verdicts

Abstract

Jury verdicts may not always be based on legally relevant evidence. A variety of extralegal factors may intrude in jury decision making. This article reviews the literature on individual juror characteristics, trial processes, and group dynamics that may bias jury verdicts. It is con cluded that while some extralegal effects are evident, on the whole American juries perform remarkably well. Two already established procedures, the voir dire and judicial instructions, are discussed as means to mitigate the influence of extralegal factors on jury verdicts.

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