Serving on a Jury

What Happens During Trial

Once you are seated on a jury, all instructions will come directly from the presiding judge. A typical trial in the Alabama Middle District proceeds through the following stages:

1. Opening statements by the attorneys
2. Presentation of evidence and witness testimony by the plaintiff or prosecution
3. Presentation of evidence and witness testimony by the defense
4. Rebuttal witnesses (if applicable)
5. Closing arguments by both sides
6. The judge's instructions (the "charge to the jury") on how to apply the law
7. Jury deliberations
8. The jury's verdict

An average trial lasts one to three days, though some trials may be longer. Trials are generally held between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Courtroom Conduct

While serving as a juror, please observe the following rules:

• Give your full attention to the testimony and evidence presented.
• Keep an open mind. Do not form opinions about the facts until all evidence has been presented and you have received the judge's instructions.
• Do not discuss the case with anyone — including fellow jurors — until deliberations begin.
• Do not read, watch, or listen to any news coverage or outside information about the case.
• Do not conduct independent research about the case, the parties, or the law.
• Refrain from conversation with attorneys, witnesses, or parties to the case on any subject, even if it is unrelated to the matter at hand.
• Do not bring food or drink (including gum, candy, or water) into the courtroom.
• Do not enter or leave the courtroom during a session. Wait for a recess before entering or exiting so as not to cause a disruption.

If you learn of any outside information about the case, or if anyone attempts to contact you about the case, notify the judge immediately through court personnel.

Breaks and Meals

Breaks are provided throughout the day. There are several restaurants within walking distance of the Montgomery courthouse. The Montgomery Chamber of Commerce website lists several downtown options.

Family and Emergencies

Cell phones are not permitted inside the courthouse. However, you will be able to check your messages during breaks if your phone is stored outside the building.

If a personal emergency arises during your service, notify the judge through any court personnel or ask to speak with the judge privately. If you need to leave the jury assembly room, please notify someone in the Jury Office first. Once you are in the courtroom, you may not leave without the judge's permission.

Employer Protection

Under federal law, no employer may discharge, threaten to discharge, intimidate, or coerce any permanent employee because of the employee's jury service. An employer who violates this law is subject to a penalty of $1,000, plus payment of damages and attorney's fees. Alabama Code § 12-16-8 (1975) provides similar state-level protections.

If you are selected for jury duty, provide a copy of your summons letter to your employer. A Certificate of Attendance will also be available to you at the end of your jury service.

Deliberations

When all evidence has been presented and the judge has given the jury its instructions, you will retire to the jury room to deliberate. During deliberations:

• All other persons must leave the room.
• Every juror has an equal voice. Listen to your fellow jurors before reaching your conclusions.
• In criminal cases, all jurors must agree on the verdict. In civil cases, the court will instruct you on the required standard.
• No juror is required to surrender a genuinely held opinion, but all jurors are encouraged to remain open to persuasion based on the evidence and the law.