How many people are typically on a Trial Jury?

A typical trial jury usually consists of 12 people. This size has historically been established to provide a balanced perspective from a diverse group of jurors, which helps ensure fair deliberation and decision-making in legal cases. The principle behind having a 12-member jury is rooted in the belief that a larger group can better reflect a community's values and provide a thorough examination of the evidence presented during a trial.

While there are variations in different jurisdictions, and some cases may allow for juries with fewer members, the standard for many serious criminal cases in the United States remains 12 jurors. This number is significant because it facilitates comprehensive discussions, reduces the likelihood of biased decisions, and promotes consensus-based verdicts. Some smaller cases, especially civil ones, might utilize fewer jurors, hence the existence of options like 6 or even 8, but these would not apply to the typical trial setting that is most commonly understood.