03 Apr CJ in Action: You Be the Juror

In this CJ in Action, you and your group will act as jurors in a real criminal case. You’ll watch a real courtroom segment, deliberate as a group, and decide whether the defendant should be found guilty or not guilty.

After reaching a collective verdict, you’ll write one shared document that includes:

1. Your group’s Verdict Memo (300–400 words)

2. Each member’s Individual Reflection (400–500 words each)

This assignment allows you to experience what real jurors face, like complex evidence, conflicting testimony, persuasive arguments, and emotional impact, while applying the principles of burdens of proof and reasonable doubt.

Your Task

Your group will select one of the four real trial options below. Each option includes a direct video segment that focuses on key trial moments (arguments, testimony, or cross-examination).

After everyone watches the case segment, you’ll meet virtually or through your Canvas group discussion board to deliberate and reach a verdict. Then, you’ll compile one single group document that includes both your collective memo and each student’s reflection.

Case Options (Choose One)

1. Derek Chauvin Trial: Prosecution Closing Arguments

· Link: YouTube: “The prosecution delivers its closing arguments in trial of Derek Chauvin” YouTube

· Recommended segment: Use from ~ 0:00 to 15:00 of this video (first 15 minutes of the closing argument) — covers key prosecution framing.

2. Derek Chauvin Trial: Closing Arguments Highlights

· Link: Derek Chauvin Trial: Prosecution and Defense Make Closing Arguments

· Recommended segment: ~ 0:00-12:00 (opening portion), or ~ 12:00-24:00, depending on availability.

3. Sean Combs (Diddy) Trial: Closing Arguments Moment

· Link: Sean Combs (“Diddy”) Trial — Closing Argument Moment YouTube link YouTube

4. GA v. Leilani Simon: Defense Closing Arguments

· Link: Sean Combs (“Diddy”) Trial — Closing Argument Moment YouTube link YouTube

Assignment Instructions:

Step 1 – Watch the Trial

Each member must watch the full segments from one of the above trials. Take detailed notes on:

· Key arguments made by prosecution and defense

· Persuasive moments or inconsistencies

· Evidence that felt strong or weak

· Emotional appeals versus factual reasoning

· Your initial personal verdict (guilty / not guilty/unsure)

Step 2 – Group Deliberation

Meet within your Canvas group (discussion board, chat, or Zoom). Your goal is to deliberate like a real jury and reach a verdict.

Discuss:

· Which evidence or arguments stood out?

· Were any witnesses credible or unreliable?

· Did the prosecution prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt?

· Did anyone’s opinion change after discussion?

· When ready, agree on a final group verdict (unanimous if possible; majority if necessary).

Step 3 – Write Your Group Verdict Memo

As a group, write a 300–400-word memo that includes:

1. Case Summary – One short paragraph describing what happened and what the case was about.

2. Verdict Decision – Clearly state your final verdict: Guilty or Not Guilty.

3. Evidence Evaluation – Explain which arguments and pieces of evidence influenced your decision and why.

4. Burden of Proof Application – Discuss how your group applied “beyond a reasonable doubt.”

5. Deliberation Reflection – Describe any disagreements, persuasion, or opinion changes within the group.

Only one group member uploads the document in Canvas, but all active members’ names must appear at the top. If someone did not participate, do not include their name.

Step 4 – Individual Reflections

In the same document (after the Group Verdict Memo), each member must include their own 400–500-word reflection.

Each reflection must include the following sections, labeled clearly by name:

1. Initial Verdict:

· What was your first instinct after watching the case?

· Why did you lean that way initially?

2. Evidence & Reasoning:

· Which specific evidence or testimony persuaded you most?

· What created doubt or confusion for you?

3. Group Influence:

· How did your group’s discussion change or reinforce your perspective?

· Did anyone make a point that challenged your assumptions?

4. Changed or Maintained Verdict:

· Did your personal verdict change after deliberation? Why or why not?

5. Course Connections:

· Reference at least two module readings or concepts (e.g., Burdens of Proof in Criminal Procedure, How the Pretrial Process Contributes to Wrongful Convictions, The Peremptory Challenge).

· Explain how those readings connect to your experience watching the case and deliberating as a juror.

Formatting and Submission

· Submit one single Word or PDF file per group.

· The file must include:

1. Group Verdict Memo (at the top)

2. Each member’s Individual Reflection below it (labeled by name)

· Only include names of members who contributed.

Grading Rubric (100 Points Total)

Component

Points

Description

Group Verdict Memo

25

Clear verdict, solid reasoning, appropriate application of burden of proof.

Evidence & Analysis

25

Thoughtful evaluation of arguments and facts from the trial segment.

Deliberation Insight

20

Shows understanding of group process, persuasion, and consensus.

Course Integration

20

Connects at least two module readings/concepts accurately to the reflection.

Writing & Presentation

10

Clear, organized, complete submission; professional tone and proper grammar.