General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: I've never served on a jury. Have you? [View all]Probatim
(2,652 posts)It was for a medical malpractice case and I was the second alternate juror. Near the end of the trial I learned I would only be part of the deliberations if two jurors were dismissed.
From the start, I realized the case had very little merit and the plaintiff would end up losing. While I'm not in healthcare, I'm healthcare adjacent (through work and family) and have had personal experiences that were similar to the patient's family.
It was clear the plaintiff's lawyer was out of his depth and his strategy for the case was deeply flawed. It was also apparent he did not provide his expert with all of the evidence from depositions and medical records - the defense team made this case during closing arguments, but it was clear to me the plaintiff's expert would not have made her assessment while ignoring several pieces of medical history.
There were so many instances during testimony where I was shocked to hear the line of questioning that I was glad to be wearing a mask. For the last two defense experts, the cross exam by the plaintiff's lawyer consisted of asking these experts to confirm details from the medical records. One expert asked if he was being asked to confirm what had just been read to him and the judge scolded him for asking questions.
Outside of COVID, I would have been removed for mouthing "WTF?" - then I realized the judge was rolling his eyes at the same time.
It was interesting to see the selection process and how everyone involved reacted to the case.