[dayglored]

> If I am to be tried by a jury of my peers, I would expect my peers to arrive with some relevant life experience that might inform their decision. I don’t think we should declare a mistrial just because a knowledgeable citizen happened to make it on to the jury.

What you say is true (his own experience can influence his vote) but that's not the relevant point. What is relevant is that he did not disclose his personal experience in selection, and then he attempted to persuade other jurors based on it.

[EliRoom8]

Well said.

[Tymesup]

The jury selection process helps lawyers and judges. Does it help everyone else?

Trials take longer
Citizens that aren’t selected waste their time

Do we really get better juries and verdicts by excluding knowledgeable citizens?

Do we not have 12 persons on a jury so that there is a reasonable expectation that one’s peers are represented?