Legal Definitions - array

In legal contexts, the term "array" primarily refers to aspects of jury selection and the jurors themselves. It can be used as both a noun and a verb.

Array (Noun)

• 1. The Pool of Potential Jurors

  This refers to the group of individuals summoned for jury duty from which a jury will ultimately be selected for a specific trial. This group is also commonly known as a venire.

  • Example 1: After receiving their summons, hundreds of citizens gathered in the courthouse auditorium, forming the initial array from which several trial juries would eventually be chosen for various cases that week.

    Explanation: Here, "array" denotes the large, initial group of prospective jurors available for selection.

  • Example 2: For the high-profile criminal trial, the judge brought in a smaller group of fifty individuals from the larger pool, which constituted the specific array for that particular case, to begin the voir dire process.

    Explanation: This illustrates "array" as the specific panel of potential jurors presented to the attorneys for questioning and selection in a given trial.

• 2. The Selected Jury

  This usage refers to the final group of individuals who have been chosen, accepted by both sides, and sworn in to hear a case and render a verdict.

  • Example: After two full days of intensive questioning, the attorneys finally agreed on the twelve individuals who would form the array tasked with deciding the complex medical malpractice suit.

    Explanation: In this context, "array" refers to the actual jury that has been empaneled and is ready to hear the evidence.

• 3. A List or Roster of Jurors

  This refers to an official document or record containing the names of individuals who are part of the potential juror pool or those who have been selected for a jury.

  • Example: Before voir dire began, both the prosecution and defense teams were provided with a copy of the official array, a detailed list of all the prospective jurors, to help them prepare their questions and identify any potential biases.

    Explanation: Here, "array" signifies the physical or digital list of names of individuals called for jury duty or selected to serve.

Array (Verb)

• 1. To Assemble or Select a Jury

  This describes the action of calling, examining, and ultimately choosing individuals to serve on a jury for a trial.

  • Example 1: The court spent the entire morning attempting to array a fair and impartial jury for the complex patent infringement trial, carefully questioning each candidate about their knowledge of intellectual property law.

    Explanation: This shows the active process of the court and attorneys working to select the members of a jury.

  • Example 2: It can be particularly challenging to successfully array a jury in cases involving highly emotional or politically charged topics, as many potential jurors may already hold strong, preconceived opinions.

    Explanation: This illustrates the act of forming or constituting a jury, highlighting the difficulties that can arise during the selection process.