Questionnaires gather background, experience, and attitude information in writing. They may be standard court forms or case-specific instruments negotiated by the parties and approved by the court.
Responses are typically confidential and returned after trial.
Alternative Names:
Juror Questionnaire, Written Voir Dire
Why it Matters?
Written responses produce candor that oral questioning in open court does not, particularly on sensitive topics such as prior litigation experience, financial hardship, and attitudes toward damages. Case-specific questionnaires require court approval and advance negotiation, and courts are more receptive in lengthy or high-profile trials. Analyzing responses under time pressure requires a plan for who reviews what before selection begins.
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Frequently asked questions
Why do questionnaires produce better information?
What preparation do they require?
