Photo: Jason Doiy/ALM In the Internet Age, the Risk of Outside Info Reaching Jurors Has 'Never Been Higher'
"Now virtually every case that goes to trial, there is information relevant to that case available in seconds at [jurors'] fingertips, and the only thing preventing them from searching is the judge's instructions and admonitions," John Gismondi said.
August 26, 2024 at 04:08 PM
4 minute read
What You Need to Know
- The rise in internet and cellphone use has made it more difficult to prevent jurors from conducting outside research.
- Courts are employing a range of methods to prevent jurors from searching for information about the cases before them.
- One judge said the key is explaining to the jury why they are prohibited from looking up case information.
During a recent round of jury selection, Judge Alan Hertzberg posed a new question to prospective jurors:
"Throughout the duration of this trial you are not permitted to use your cellphone or any device to obtain or disclose any information about this case. Will you be able to resist the temptation to use a cellphone or other electronic device to search for information that you think will help you decide this case?"
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