When it comes to selecting the best jurors to render a decision in a sex-based criminal case, knowing effective juror questions to ask individuals during voir dire is paramount. In this blog post I share my list of the top twenty-five questions I seek to ask potential jurors.

Juror Questions For a Sex-Based Case

My twenty-five questions are divided into two categories designed to reveal both an individual’s legal perspective as well as their personal perspective of a case. Here are my top 25 questions to ask jurors in a sex-based case:

Questions to Evaluate a Juror’s Legal Perspective

1. What is your understanding of the term reasonable doubt?
2. How do you feel about the use of forensic evidence in criminal cases?
3. Have you ever served on a jury for a similar case? If so, how did it influence your views?
4. How would you assess the credibility of a witness in a sexual abuse case?
5. Are you familiar with common defense strategies used in sexual abuse cases?
6. How would you approach conflicting testimonies from witnesses?
7. How do you define consent in sexual encounters?
8. Can you assess the credibility of expert witnesses in the field of sexual abuse?
9. How would you handle media coverage of the trial and its potential impact on your decision-making process?
10. How do you feel about the possibility of convicting an innocent person vs letting a guilty person go free?
11. Can you commit to upholding the principles of justice and fairness throughout the trial?
12. Have you ever participated in discussions or forums related to sexual abuse or criminal justice?
13. Can you set aside any personal biases when evaluating evidence?
14. Can you promise to base your decision solely on the evidence presented in court?

Questions to Evaluate a Juror’s Personal Perspective

1. Do you believe that past sexual behavior can be indicative of future actions in sexual abuse cases?
2. Do you believe that the justice system adequately protects the rights of both the accused and the victim in sexual abuse cases?
3. Can you remain impartial if explicit or graphic evidence is presented during the trial?
4. Have you or anyone close to you ever been a victim of sexual abuse?
5. Do you believe that victims of sexual abuse can sometimes misremember details?
6. What role do you think societal stereotypes play in sexual abuse cases?
7. How do you feel about the #MeToo movement and its impact on sexual abuse cases?
8. Do you believe that individuals are capable of making false allegations in a sexual abuse case?
9. What measures do you think should be taken to protect the privacy of sexual abuse victims during the trial?
10. What steps do you think should be taken to prevent sexual abuse in society?
11. How would you respond to emotional testimony from either the victim or the defendant?

My Final Thoughts

Choosing the right jurors for a sex-based criminal case begins by asking the right questions. Selecting a fair and impartial jury, finding jurors to render a decision based on evidence rather than emotion, is paramount for a defendant to receive a fair trial. These 25 questions are designed to help you identify individuals who can approach the case with fairness, impartiality, and a commitment to justice.

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