§ Rule 47(b) Voir Dire Oath; Examination of Jurors; Brief Opening Statements

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Rule 47(b). Voir Dire Oath; Examination of Jurors; Brief Opening Statements

    1. Prior to examination of jurors with respect to their qualifications, an oath or examination shall be administered in substance as follows: “You do solemnly swear (or affirm) that you will well and truly answer all questions touching your qualifications to serve as a trial juror in the cause now on trial, so help you God.” If a juror affirms, the clause “so help you God” shall be omitted.

    2. Upon request and with the court's consent, the parties may present brief opening statements to the entire jury panel, prior to voir dire. The court may require counsel to present such opening statements.

    3. The court shall control voir dire and conduct a thorough oral examination of prospective jurors. Upon the request of any party, the court shall permit that party a reasonable time to conduct a further oral examination of the prospective jurors. In courts of record, voir dire shall be conducted on the record unless waived by the parties on the record. The court may impose reasonable limitations with respect to questions allowed during a party's examination of the prospective jurors. The court shall ensure the privacy of prospective jurors is reasonably protected. The court may terminate or limit voir dire on grounds of abuse. Nothing in this Rule shall preclude the use of written questionnaires to be completed by the prospective jurors, in addition to oral examination. The court may permit written questions to be submitted following review and approval by the court.