Abstract

We examine the time it takes to reach a verdict (deliberation time) using a unique dataset on the deliberation times of actual juries in criminal and civil cases. Duration model results indicate that case complexity, the unanimity of verdicts and the process of voir dire affect deliberation times, whereas jury size, prior juror experience and the gender composition of juries are not significant correlates. The results shed empirical light on an important correlate of trial accuracy using real-world data, in contrast to previous research that employed mock jury data.

Submitted: November 3, 2008 · Accepted: July 1, 2009 · Published: October 2, 2009

Recommended Citation

Brunell, Thomas L.; Dave, Chetan; and Morgan, Nicholas C. (2009) "Factors Affecting the Length of Time a Jury Deliberates: Case Characteristics and Jury Composition," Review of Law & Economics: Vol. 5 : Iss. 1, Article 23.
DOI: 10.2202/1555-5879.1334
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/rle/vol5/iss1/art23