How Does Jury Service Affect 21st-Century Jurors?

Abstract

The 21st century adds unique challenges to the juror experience. Jurors are now exposed to, and often expect, certain technologies during jury duty. This chapter addresses how advances in technology can exacerbate juror stress or increase juror satisfaction. A juror’s role has not changed drastically over time, but jurors are now exposed to more complex trials and evidence, have easy access to the Internet, and are exposed to crime television in popular culture; all of these can affect the juror experience. Often, technology can exacerbate stress. For instance, some jurors are exposed to advanced methods of presenting gruesome evidence. Alternatively, technology can enhance well-being. For instance, online information and check-in can reduce the uncertainty and inconvenience of serving. Empirical research on how 21st-century technology influences jurors’ stress and well-being is lacking. Therefore, this chapter issues a call to action for researchers to further investigate the juror experience.