The advent of online mock jury trials has led to many benefits, not only to consultants or legal practitioners but also to people looking for a side gig. Being an online mock juror can be a great prospect to get money on the side as well as learn a thing or two about the legal process – but how do you become one? Here are factors you have to consider on how to be an online mock juror.
Meet the requirements
Much like the selection process for actual jury trials, virtual jurors are selected at random; however, there’s a set of requirements that must be met to be eligible for being selected.
Here are the minimum requirements to be a juror:
- At least 18 years of age
- A U.S. citizen
- Is of sound mind
- Able to read and write
- Not a felon or under indictment
If you want to be an online mock juror, you need to meet all the requirements mentioned above to be considered by mock jury recruitment agencies.
Some agencies have extra requirements such as:
- Not being an actively practicing legal practitioner
- Not being employed by a law firm or attorney
- Not being related to a legal practitioner by blood (up to the second degree) or marriage
- Not being employed in a position of insurance or liability claim adjustment
Familiarize yourself with the trial process
Mock jurors don’t have to know everything about the trial process like a lawyer but it definitely helps to have a general idea of how it goes.
Throughout the majority of the trial, you have to listen, evaluate the arguments of the case, and give your output (i.e. verdict) by the end of your trial.
Knowing the trial process also allows you to gauge how long the mock jury trial will take place. At least recognizing that the trial may take a few hours allows you to straighten yourself during that time for a fruitful discussion when finally deciding the verdict.
Prepare for the mental difficulty of being a juror
Jurors don’t just listen and give an opinion for the verdict; they have to:
- Seriously consider the applicable law/s in the case
- Evaluate the arguments in the case based on facts; and
- Read and reconsider the case (over and over)
As a mock online juror, you may also be subjected to some additional evaluations to help the law firm or attorney, like:
- Answering questions about the case
- Participating in more in-depth legal focus groups
- Filling out surveys
Being a juror can be daunting and mentally exhausting. It’s no different whether it’s in-person or online or if it’s a real trial or a mock one.
The last point is important because your opinion is greatly valued by the lawyers practicing for the actual trial. You’ll be expected to exercise sharp thinking and critical reasoning to provide valuable information; otherwise, there’s a chance that you’ll be blacklisted or given low priority by the jury recruitment agency or law firm.
With that being said, here’s one more thing you should know about being an online mock juror.
Make the most out of the opportunity
At best, being an online mock juror is a good side gig, but it’s far from being a viable career path. Because of the random nature of jury selection, you can’t expect to be paid for this opportunity consistently.
On the other hand, the actual pay can range from $50 up to $200 depending on the difficulty and length of the case, as well as the jury recruitment firm. What’s more, the added benefit of being an online mock juror as opposed to an in-person one is not having to pay for travelling or accommodations.
You’ll also get to learn a thing or two about the jury trial process and develop skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving – great additions to your skillset in your actual career.
Overall, you have to know what you’re getting yourself into when deciding to be an online mock juror for you to feel the full benefits of the opportunity.
Become an Online Mock Juror with Mock Jury Trials Online
Civicom is a leading global partner in facilitating online mock jury trials for legal firms or trial consultants. If you’re looking into online jury solutions, let us know how we can help.
