NCJ Number
116906
Journal
Prosecutor Volume: 22 Issue: 2 Dated: (1988) Pages: 32-35
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses behavior research tools for the prosecutor to select and guide juries.
Abstract
Behavioral research techniques can affect trial preparation work. These techniques include jury trial strategy development, jury selection, and witness preparation. Although jury behavior techniques have been extensively used in medical malpractice cases, contract litigation, civil rights cases, and criminal defense cases, few district attorneys use modern qualitative research methods in their jury trial work. The article notes that the prosecutor's job lends itself to jury behavior research that serves as a training tool for younger, less experienced attorneys. In addition, the repetitive nature of cases handled by the prosecutor's office could enable jury behavior research to provide a permanent reservoir of information to staff members. Research stages of a typical Trial Behavior Management Plan are presented in detail, including surveys, interviews, and deliberation groups. A plan that was implemented in a District Attorney's Office in Portland, Oregon, is described.