Legal Definitions - shower

A shower is an individual appointed by a court to escort a jury to a specific location outside the courtroom that is relevant to the case they are hearing. This visit, often referred to as a "jury view" or "site visit," allows jurors to personally observe physical evidence, a scene, or conditions that are central to the legal dispute. The shower's primary responsibility is to facilitate this viewing, ensure the jury's safety, maintain the integrity of the process by preventing unauthorized communication or influence, and ensure that the jury only observes what is permitted by the court.

• Example 1: Property Line Dispute
  In a lawsuit concerning a disputed property boundary between two landowners, the court might decide that the jury needs to see the actual properties. A shower would be appointed to accompany the jury to the site, guiding them to observe the fence line, any markers, and the topography of the land in question. This direct observation helps the jurors better understand the testimony and photographic evidence presented in court regarding the exact location of the property line and any alleged encroachments.

• Example 2: Construction Defect Case
  Consider a case where a homeowner is suing a construction company for significant structural defects in a newly built house. To fully grasp the extent of the alleged damage and the nature of the defects, the court may order a jury view of the property. A shower would then escort the jury to the house, allowing them to visually inspect the cracks in the foundation, water damage, or other construction flaws that are central to the homeowner's claims, providing a crucial visual context for the expert testimony.

• Example 3: Environmental Contamination Lawsuit
  In a complex environmental lawsuit where a community alleges that a local factory has polluted a nearby river, the court might determine that a jury view of the affected area is necessary. A shower would accompany the jury to specific points along the riverbank or to affected land areas. This allows the jurors to observe firsthand the physical conditions, such as discolored water, unusual vegetation, or other signs of contamination, which are presented as evidence of the factory's alleged impact, thereby enhancing their understanding of the scientific and expert testimony.