Function:
The function of the foreperson is to lead the deliberations of the jury to the
extent of encouraging the participation of all the jurors in the process,
mediating any disputes between jurors and keeping the jurors focused on the
decision-making process. Despite this responsibility, the foreperson's vote on a
particular sentence is entitled to no greater weight than that of the other
jurors.
Any
juror may serve as Foreperson.
Duties
and Obligations
The
foreperson, in addition to those of a juror, has the following additional duties
and obligations in youth court:
1)
lead the jury's deliberations by stimulating discussion
amongst the jurors;
2)
maintain order in the jury room, insuring an open discussion
of the facts and the appropriate sentence;
3)
require each juror to state his/her views as to what the
offender's sentence should be and why;
4)
call for a vote during the deliberations as to the appropriate
sentence;
5)
communicate with the judge when a juror or the jury has a
question or needs guidance during their deliberations;