Rule 3.06 Conduct of Jurors

During a trial, jurors have to keep their distance from everyone else involved in the case. They cannot talk with or spend time around the lawyers, the people involved in the lawsuit, witnesses, or anyone watching the trial. This applies everywhere in the courthouse, including the courtroom, hallways, and restrooms.

The judge is responsible for telling jurors about this rule. The judge must clearly instruct them to avoid any contact with attorneys, parties, witnesses, or spectators throughout the trial.

This rule exists to keep the trial fair. If jurors mixed with people connected to the case, it could lead to outside influence or the appearance that someone tried to sway their decision. Keeping jurors separate helps make sure they base their verdict only on what happens in the courtroom, not on conversations or impressions picked up elsewhere in the building.