Demographics In Civil Trials: Biases And Implications

Abstract

This paper investigates the implications of the demographics of jury members and its influence on their findings. A written civil case where the defendant was at fault but the damage and injury claims were equally believable on both sides was presented to a random group of potential jurors. A survey instrument collected selected demographic information from participants and asked how they would rule as to injury and damage awards were they jurors in the case. The sample was then analyzed as to the difference in their finding of fault and award recommendation based on the jurors’ selected demographic characteristics. Findings indicate that a juror’s recommendation regarding medical expense award and business damage award is not independent of gender and race.