An alternate juror is an individual selected as part of a jury but who does not participate in the deliberations unless called upon to replace a regular juror. In personal injury cases, alternate jurors ensure that the trial can proceed without interruption if one of the regular jurors is unable to fulfill their duties due to illness, bias, or other disqualifying factors.
The Role of an Alternate Juror
- Standby for Regular Jurors: Alternate jurors attend the entire trial, listening to all evidence and testimonies, just like the regular jurors. However, they do not participate in the decision-making process unless a replacement is needed.
- Maintaining Fairness: The presence of alternate jurors ensures that the trial is not delayed or jeopardized if a juror must be dismissed, maintaining the integrity and continuity of the legal process.
- Juror Replacement: If a regular juror is excused, the alternate juror steps in with full knowledge of the case, allowing deliberations to continue smoothly without the need to restart the trial.
Selection and Participation
Alternate jurors are selected in the same manner as regular jurors, undergoing the same questioning and selection process (voir dire). They remain impartial and available throughout the trial but are dismissed before deliberations if not required to replace a regular juror.
Conclusion
Alternate jurors play a vital role in preserving the efficiency and fairness of personal injury trials. Their readiness to replace regular jurors ensures that unforeseen issues do not hinder the trial’s progress or the pursuit of justice for the parties involved.
