What is Jury Consultants?

Picking a jury is one of the most important steps in the litigation process. During voir dire, the lawyers for each side will be permitted to ask questions of the jury panel members. This is an opportunity to find out if any of the panel members have a bias for or against any issue in the case, or if there exist any behavioral characteristics that need to be considered. It is also an opportunity to acquaint the potential jurors with the case and to make a favorable first impression. In many cases the lawyers will engage a jury consultant to assist in picking the jury. The jury consultant will no doubt have important experience and research available and will advise about litigation risks. The jury consultant will assist the lawyer in formulating questions for the panel and will give the litigator insight into the issues that may move this jury toward their client's position.