Jury Duty – The Selection Process

Most of you have been summoned for jury duty at least once in your life. It’s safe to assert most of you have groaned and toyed with the idea of calling in sick. Not a good idea!

Jury duty is not to be taken lightly. It’s  a critical component of our legal system. Every American has the right to a jury, if they choose. Just as you may become involved in DWI litigation in the future and request a jury, there are hundreds of cases within your county for which a jury has already been requested.

Attorneys must review all potential jurors for various criteria. This is in an effort to select a panel of jurors who are unbiased and do not have a vested interest in the outcome of the trial.

I have developed a list of four techniques often used by attorneys. I am hopeful this will give you some insight into the jury selection process: How do Attorneys Select Jurors?

Unfortunate NH DWI News

Many of my clients have come to me because of a poor decision to drink and drive. The majority learn their lesson after the first offense, and leave more cautious and educated about the legal implications of drinking and driving. Unfortunately there are individuals who have serious conditions and endanger others. I post this news story to urge you to encourage family and friends to be cautious. If you suspect a loved one has problems with controlling their intake of alcohol, encourage them to seek help.

A local Portsmouth father has not only been charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated, but child endangerment to his 2-year-old.

Full story here: http://www.boston.com/news/local/new_hampshire/articles/2009…

Some cities experience decline in DWI arrests

The holidays are a special time of year; unfortunately many drunk driving arrests also occur during the season. It’s always reassuring to see cities taking precautionary and educational measures to ensure the citizens arrive home safely. One such city, Joplin, MO, fortunately experienced a decline in DWI arrests during New Year’s.

“Area law enforcement officials credit educational campaigns and increased patrols with helping to reduce the number of drunk-driving arrests on New Year’s Eve. Joplin led the way with nine arrests on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, but law enforcement in other communities in Missouri and Kansas said they had only one or two arrests over the holiday.”

Full article: http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/local_story_002203502.html