Offering an alternative view of the jury process, this book argues that each stage transforms ordinary citizens, who are oftentimes reluctant to serve on juries, into responsible jurors. Jurors, Professor Marder argues, are not found, but rather they are made and shaped by the jury process. This book analyzes each stage of this process, from initial summons to post-verdict interview, and shows how these stages equip jurors with experiences and knowledge that allow them to perform their new role ably. It adopts a holistic approach to the subject of jury reform and suggests reforms that will aid the transformation of citizens into jurors. By studying the jury from the perspective of jurors, it gives readers a better understanding of what takes place during jury trials and allows them to see juries, jurors, and the jury process in a new light.

'Marder's book is a timely and original account of one of our most important institutions. It begins with a broad reimagining of the transformation of ordinary citizens into responsible jurors. It then moves deftly to a host of reforms that would serve concretely to embody this compelling vision. It is the distillation of decades of serious thought.'

Robert P. Burns - Professor, Northwestern University School of Law

'Professor Nancy S. Marder provides a unique and inspirational look at how juries are made. Her perspective on becoming a juror explains why serving as a juror can be such a meaningful experience and why juries are so successful in dealing with the challenging problems society asks them to solve.'

Shari Seidman Diamond - Howard J. Trienens Professor of Law, Northwestern Pritzker School of Law/American Bar Foundation

'Professor Nancy S. Marder has written a meticulously researched, comprehensive, and powerful account of how the jury trial process transforms ordinary people into responsible jurors. This compelling book of citizen transformation forces us to rethink our traditional ideas about the jury trial process. A tour de force!'

Valerie P. Hans - Charles F. Rechlin Professor of Law, Cornell Law School