National Center for State Courts

 

Improving Justice through Leadership
and Service to the Courts

     

  

Juror Notebooks

Overview

The Center for Jury Studies

Juror notebooks refers to the practice of giving jurors a type of three ring binder that contains relevant information, documents, and evidence that has been presented in the trial.  Usually reserved for more complex cases, this innovation has yet to see widespread usage in the United States .  Critics complain that it is too costly, both in the time necessary to prepare the notebook and the monetary expense connected to it.  However, proponents claim that notebooks will increase comprehension in complex cases, thus leading to more fair and accurate verdicts.  Additionally, notebooks will reinforce juror confidence in themselves and their decisions, thus increasing juror satisfaction with the legal process.

This module seeks to explore the issue of juror notebooks and the relevant advantages and disadvantages of this jury trial innovation.