Legal Definitions - fixed opinion

Fixed Opinion

A "fixed opinion" refers to a strong, unchangeable belief or viewpoint held by a potential juror about a case, a party involved, or a legal issue, which would prevent them from listening to the evidence fairly and rendering an impartial verdict. If a potential juror has a fixed opinion, they are considered biased and cannot serve on the jury.

• Example 1: Preconceived Guilt

  During jury selection for a criminal trial involving a high-profile fraud case, a potential juror states during questioning that they believe all individuals charged with financial crimes are inherently dishonest and guilty, regardless of the specific evidence presented. They further explain that no amount of testimony or evidence could convince them otherwise.

  This illustrates a fixed opinion because the potential juror's strong, unchangeable belief about the guilt of anyone accused of financial crimes would prevent them from impartially evaluating the evidence presented in court for this specific defendant. Their mind is already made up.

• Example 2: Bias Against a Type of Organization

  In a civil lawsuit where a large pharmaceutical company is being sued for negligence, a potential juror reveals during jury selection that they have a deep-seated distrust of all major pharmaceutical corporations, believing them to be inherently unethical and prioritizing profit over patient safety. They admit that this belief is so strong it would be impossible for them to fairly consider the company's defense.

  This demonstrates a fixed opinion because the potential juror's unshakeable negative view of pharmaceutical companies, as a category, would prevent them from objectively weighing the evidence and arguments specific to the defendant in this particular case.

• Example 3: Unwavering Stance on a Legal Principle

  A jury is being selected for a case challenging the constitutionality of a local zoning ordinance. A potential juror expresses a firm and unyielding belief that all government regulations on private property are an infringement on personal liberty and should always be struck down, regardless of the specific details or legal arguments presented. They state they could not vote to uphold any such regulation.

  This exemplifies a fixed opinion because the potential juror holds an unchangeable position on a fundamental legal principle relevant to the case. Their pre-existing conviction would prevent them from impartially considering the legal arguments and evidence regarding the specific zoning ordinance in question.