(November 2021)
[1] Every juror must be impartial, which means that every juror must approach the trial with an open mind and without preconceived ideas.
[2] We all have beliefs and assumptions that affect our perception of the world. These perceptions can create a bias for or against others based on their personal characteristics [such as gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or employment status]. We may be aware of some of these biases, but unaware of others.
[3] No matter how unbiased we think we are, we look at others and filter what they say through the lens of our own personal background and experiences. Unconscious biases may be based on stereotypes or feelings that one has about a particular group, namely, traits that one associates with that group. All human beings experience unconscious biases, but these biases can be overcome through self-reflection and introspection.
[4] If you are selected as a juror, you will be asked to judge the evidence presented at trial fairly without bias, prejudice, sympathy or partiality.
[5] Jurors are judges of the facts and must approach the case with an open mind, one that is free from bias, prejudice, sympathy or partiality. Impartiality requires active work. It requires that you be aware of your own personal beliefs and experiences, and that you be equally open to the views of others. If you are selected as a juror, it will be your duty to identify and set aside any prejudices or stereotypes that might affect your decision in this case.
[6] There are things that jurors can do to help identify and set aside unconscious bias. If you are chosen as a juror, you will be instructed to:
1. Take the time you need to reflect carefully and thoughtfully about the evidence.
2. Think about why you are making the decision you are making and examine it for bias. Reconsider your first impressions of the people and the evidence in this case. If the people involved in this case were from different backgrounds, for example, [richer or poorer, more or less educated, older or younger, or of different gender, gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation] would you still view them, and the evidence, the same way?
3. Listen to one another. You all have different backgrounds and will be viewing this case in light of your own insights, assumptions, and biases. Listening to different perspectives may help you to better identify the possible effects of hidden biases. Help one another to identify and resist the effect of unconscious bias.
4. Resist jumping to conclusions based on personal likes or dislikes, generalizations, gut feelings, prejudices, sympathies, or stereotypes.
[7] I will now explain some requirements for jury service. Listen carefully. If any of these apply to you, you may not be able to serve as a juror in this case.