Personal injury trials in Oklahoma involve the victim, the defendant, and a jury. The jury is an essential component in ensuring a fair trial while acting as the voice of the community in deciding the verdict. In this article, we break down the role of a jury in an Oklahoma personal injury trial.
Table of Contents
Who is in the jury?
The jury is typically made up of a group of people with diverse backgrounds. The jurors are selected from the community through a process called voir dire. During the process, potential jurors are asked questions by the attorneys and judge to determine their suitability to sit on the jury. Their responses are evaluated to identify any biases that could influence their decision in the case.
The Functions of the Jury
- To weigh evidence presented in the court
In a personal injury trial, the role of the jury is to weigh the evidence presented in the court. This evidence may include medical records, accident reports, witness testimonies, and physical evidence. The jurors listen carefully to each testimony, and they use their knowledge and experience to determine the validity of the evidence presented to them.
- To determine liability
Another critical role played by the jury is to determine the liability of the defendant in causing the personal injury. In a personal injury trial, the plaintiff has the burden of proving by a preponderance of evidence that the defendant was negligent and their negligence caused the plaintiff’s injuries. The jurors evaluate the evidence and determine if the defendant is liable for the plaintiff’s injuries.
- To determine damages
The jury also determines the amount of compensation the plaintiff should receive for their injuries. They consider the severity of the victim’s injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future financial losses. The jury may also consider the impact of the personal injury on the victim’s quality of life when determining the amount of compensation.
Jury Instructions
The judge in the case is responsible for providing legal instructions to the jury. These instructions help to provide guidance on how to evaluate the evidence presented and on how to apply the law in making a verdict. The instructions also serve to remind the jurors about their responsibilities in upholding fairness, impartiality and justice for the plaintiff and defendant.
Considerations of the Jury
The jurors are required to weigh the evidence presented during the trial objectively. They must not allow their emotions or biases to affect their judgment. They must also avoid outside influences or conversations related to the trial. They are supposed to weigh the evidence based on facts presented in the trial in order to make the right decision on behalf of the community.
Conclusion
The jury plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of a personal injury trial in Oklahoma. They are responsible for weighing the evidence presented in court, determining liability, and deciding the amount of compensation that the plaintiff should receive. Their role is significant in ensuring that the trial is fair, impartial, and provides justice to the victim and defendant. Understanding the vital role of the jury in personal injury cases in Oklahoma is essential to appreciate the significance of their contribution in delivering fair outcomes in legal proceedings.