Potential Juror Dismissed for Difficulty in Being Fair
A potential juror has been dismissed from the trial after expressing difficulty in being fair. He openly admitted that it would be challenging for him to maintain impartiality and fairness. This dismissal highlights the importance of having unbiased individuals on the jury panel.
Completion of Questionnaire by Eighteen Potential Jurors
Before the lunch break, a total of eighteen potential jurors have completed the questionnaire. Judge Juan Merchan has provided them with instructions, emphasizing that they should refrain from reading or discussing the case with anyone. This step ensures that the jurors’ decision-making process remains unbiased and unaffected by external influences.
Peremptory Strikes and Attorney Dismissals
Now that the initial questioning phase has concluded, both the prosecution and defense attorneys will have the opportunity to use peremptory strikes. These strikes allow them to dismiss potential jurors from the panel without providing a specific reason. Each side has four strikes remaining, which they can use strategically based on their assessment of the potential jurors’ suitability for the case.
Impartiality Questioned for a Juror Familiar with Trump’s Attorney
Judge Juan Merchan has identified a potential juror who knows Susan Necheles, a member of Donald Trump’s legal team. The judge intends to question her regarding her ability to remain fair and impartial. However, the judge has not yet made a decision on whether to dismiss her from the jury pool.
