Jury Trial Form Without Jury In Contra Costa
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FAQ
The most common techniques of alternative dispute resolution include the Minitrial, Arbitration, the Summary Jury Trial, the Rent-a-Judge program, Voluntary Settlement Conferences and Private Organizations established to assist in dispute resolution.
Bench trial - Trial without a jury in which a judge decides the facts. In a jury trial, the jury decides the facts. Defendants will occasionally waive the right to a jury trial and choose to have a bench trial.
This right is also preserved in Article I, Section 16 of the State Constitution of California. However, there may be times when it's in your best interest to waive your right to a jury trial, whether in favor of a bench trial, where a judge decides your verdict or as part of a plea deal.
Yes. The defendant may always elect a judge rather than a jury trial. It helps in cases where legal issues may be clouded by emotional considerations which are counter to the defendant's case.
The short answer is: the defendant has the right to waive a jury and opt for a bench trial.
You must inform the court that you are not able to serve. Requests to be excused must be in writing and submitted to the Office of the Jury Commissioner prior to the prospective juror's service date.
Ing to the Supreme Court, the jury-trial right applies only when "serious" offenses are at hand—petty offenses don't invoke it. For purposes of this right, a serious offense is one that carries a potential sentence of more than six months' imprisonment.
When writing a jury excuse letter, directly state why you cannot serve and how serving would lead to hardship. Valid exemptions include being ill or disabled, being the sole guardian of young children, or being over the age of 70. Include documentation such as a doctor's note or a letter from an employer.
You must inform the court that you are not able to serve. Requests to be excused must be in writing and submitted to the Office of the Jury Commissioner prior to the prospective juror's service date.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) ADR is usually less formal, less expensive, and less time-consuming than a trial. ADR can also give people more opportunity to determine when and how their dispute will be resolved. Learn more about ADR programs available in the trial courts.
