Jury

What jury means

In practice, you will see jury in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.

Where jury comes up

For example, the term appears in these procedures:

• Jury Demand (Fed. R. Civ. P. 38(b)): a written demand for a jury trial on issues triable by a jury.

How to research the term

To research jury, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.

You can read the official rule text online for free.

Related legal terms

• Demand: an assertion of a right or a claim, calling on another person to do something.
• Voir dire: the process of questioning prospective jurors to select a jury. Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 47(a), the court may let the parties or their lawyers examine prospective jurors or may examine them itself.
• Peremptory challenge: a party's right to excuse a prospective juror without stating a reason. In federal civil cases, each party is entitled to three peremptory challenges under 28 U.S.C. § 1870. Peremptory challenges may not be used to exclude jurors because of race or sex.

Why precise terms matter

Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.