Sequestration

Definition

Sequestration refers to the practice of isolating jurors from outside influences during a trial, often to prevent exposure to media coverage or public opinion that could affect their judgment. This process is particularly important in high-profile cases, where sensationalism and media attention can distort the perception of evidence and lead to biased decision-making. By keeping jurors separated from external information, the legal system aims to uphold the integrity of the trial and ensure a fair verdict based solely on the evidence presented in court.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sequestration can occur for the entire duration of a trial or just during deliberations, depending on the case's specifics and the judge's ruling.
2. In highly publicized cases, judges may order sequestration to minimize jurors' exposure to media portrayals that could influence their opinions about the defendant or the evidence.
3. Jurors who are sequestered are typically housed in a hotel and have limited access to phones, television, and news sources to avoid any potential biases.
4. The length of time jurors are sequestered can vary greatly, with some trials lasting weeks or even months, which can be burdensome for jurors and their families.
5. Sequestration is not common in most trials but is more frequently used in cases involving significant public interest or when there's a risk of prejudicial pre-trial publicity.

Review Questions

• How does sequestration aim to protect the integrity of a trial and ensure a fair verdict?
  • Sequestration protects trial integrity by isolating jurors from outside influences, particularly media coverage that could shape their opinions before reaching a verdict. By keeping jurors away from potentially biased information, it helps ensure that their decisions are based solely on the evidence presented in court. This isolation is crucial in high-profile cases where public sentiment might otherwise affect juror impartiality and lead to an unjust outcome.
• Discuss the implications of media sensationalism on juror behavior and how sequestration can mitigate these effects.
  • Media sensationalism can heavily influence juror behavior by creating preconceived notions about a case before it even begins. When jurors are exposed to extensive media coverage, they might form opinions based on sensationalized narratives rather than factual evidence. Sequestration mitigates these effects by limiting jurors' exposure to such information, thereby promoting impartiality and helping them focus solely on the trial's proceedings without external bias.
• Evaluate the challenges that sequestration poses for jurors and the legal system in managing high-profile cases affected by trial by media.
  • Sequestration presents significant challenges for both jurors and the legal system, especially in high-profile cases influenced by trial by media. Jurors may face emotional strain due to isolation from family and friends, leading to stress and difficulty concentrating on the case. Additionally, lengthy sequestration can result in logistical issues, such as housing costs and potential juror fatigue. The legal system must balance the need for fair trials with these practical concerns while ensuring that justice is served without external influence shaping outcomes.

Related terms

Trial by Media: The phenomenon where media coverage influences public opinion and perceptions about a case before it is resolved in court, potentially impacting the jury's impartiality.

Juror Misconduct: Any inappropriate behavior by jurors that may include discussing the case outside of court or seeking information from external sources, undermining the trial process.

Change of Venue: The legal procedure of moving a trial to a different location to ensure a fair trial, often used when local publicity may prejudice jurors.