Ross Harris Trial Judge Swears in Jury 10/03/16

TL;DR

The trial of Justin Ross Harris begins with jury selection and opening statements, followed by the presentation of evidence and closing arguments. The judge emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind, not discussing the case, avoiding social media, and refraining from independent investigations.

Transcript

all right I think we're back and the defendants in the courtroom um people are standing up that would tell me that people need to talk about things no you're on uh I know with it here that actually if they have an apple I think they do they can get uh log into the IP on this and actually view whatever is on that screen remotely if they can figure t... Read More

Key Insights

• 🔰 The trial of Justin Ross Harris is in progress, with jury selection completed and opening statements about to begin.
• 🤗 Jurors must keep an open mind and consider all evidence presented to them before making a decision.
• 🔉 Jurors are prohibited from discussing the case with anyone, including fellow jurors, and should refrain from using social media or conducting independent investigations.
• 💁 Physical items and witness testimony are the two forms of evidence that can be presented in the trial.
• 🧑‍⚖️ The judge has the authority to determine the admissibility of evidence based on the laws of Georgia.
• 🗒️ Jurors are provided with notepads to take notes, but note-taking should not distract them from actively listening and observing the proceedings.
• 😚 Following the conclusion of evidence, there will be closing arguments and the judge will give legal instructions to the jury.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the purpose of opening statements in a trial?

Opening statements provide an overview of the anticipated evidence in the case. They are given by the attorneys and are not considered evidence or proof.

Q: How does evidence come to the jury in a trial?

Evidence can come to the jury in the form of testimony from witnesses and through physical items related to the case. Testimony is considered evidence, while the questions asked by attorneys are not.

Q: What role does the judge play in determining the admissibility of evidence?

The judge serves as the gatekeeper of evidence and decides whether it conforms to the laws of Georgia. The judge may sustain objections and exclude evidence or overrule objections and allow the evidence to be presented to the jury.

Q: Are jurors allowed to take notes during the trial?

Jurors are provided with notepads and pens, but note-taking is not mandatory. Notes serve as memory aids and are meant to assist jurors during deliberations. Jurors should not let note-taking interfere with their observation and listening to witnesses.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The trial of the State of Georgia vs. Justin Ross Harris commences, with the jury selection process completed and opening statements about to begin.

• The judge outlines the sequence of events in a trial, including the presentation of evidence through testimony and physical items.

• The judge emphasizes the importance of jurors keeping an open mind, not discussing the case, avoiding social media, and refraining from independent investigations.