Request A Consultation Call Toll Free 1-866-269-2481

Consistently ranked TOP TEN in ONTARIO

by Canadian Lawyer Magazine

Request A Consultation

Request A Consultation

Our skilled personal injury legal team and accident benefits specialists are here to help you. Please fill out the consultation form and one of our team members will connect with you for a free consultation.

    Thank you for your message
    submitting...
    Error! Please Try Again.
    HomeNews & ArticlesThe Civil Jury System in Ontario
    General Interest


    The Civil Jury System in Ontario

    August 23, 2010  |  By:  Troy Lehman

    A jury trial begins with the assembly of a jury panel. Dozens of members of the community are randomly chosen to gather in a courtroom. The judge arrives. The case is then called and a court official picks names from a drum to take their seats in the jury box.

    Unlike the American system, lawyers do not ask questions of potential jurors in Ontario. The only information provided to the lawyers about a potential juror is his or her name, age, address and occupation. In civil cases a jury consists of six people. Each party to the lawsuit can “challenge” four jurors. When a juror is challenged, he or she is taken off the jury panel.

    Many people dread receiving a jury notice. It is a big sacrifice to sit on a jury. You are taken from your daily routine. You are burdened with the responsibility of making decisions that will affect people for the rest of their lives. Being on a jury can be stressful.

    Being on a jury can also be interesting and rewarding. I am always astonished at the dedication, hard work and wisdom of people on juries. It is impressive to see members of our community sit and attentively listen to evidence. It is extraordinary how, at the end of a trial, the jury decision is almost always fair and just.


    About the Author

    Troy Lehman

    A graduate of the University of Western Ontario law school, Troy was called to the bar in 2001. Troy received the highest mark on the Bar Admission course by anyone from Western University. Troy...

    Read Bio  Read Articles