Local Rule Rule 48: COMMUNICATION WITH JURORS

Rule 48. COMMUNICATION WITH JURORS. Upon the return of a verdict by the jury in any civil or criminal action, neither the attorneys in the action nor the parties may, in the courtroom or elsewhere, express to the members of the jury their pleasure or displeasure with the verdict. After the jury has been discharged, neither the attorneys in the action nor the parties may at any time or in any manner communicate with any member of the jury regarding the verdict. Provided, however, that if an attorney believes in good faith that the verdict may be subject to legal challenge, the attorney may apply ex parte to the trial judge for permission to interview one or more members of the jury regarding the fact or circumstance claimed to support the legal challenge. If satisfied that good cause exists, the judge may grant permission for the attorney to make the requested communication and will prescribe the terms and conditions under which it may be conducted.