Judge Juan Merchan has indicated that in the event a verdict is reached in the ongoing trial, he plans to have the alternate jurors present in the courtroom. During a recent court session, Judge Merchan stated that the alternate jurors would be asked to sit in the front row once a decision is made.
'Having alternate jurors ready to step in is a common practice in trials to ensure that proceedings can continue smoothly in case a regular juror is unable to fulfill their duties. These alternate jurors are typically selected at the beginning of the trial and are kept on standby throughout the proceedings.
Judge Merchan's decision to have the alternate jurors present during the verdict announcement highlights the importance of their role in the trial process. By having them in the front row, Judge Merchan is ensuring that they are ready to step in if needed and are fully informed about the case.
It is crucial for the judicial system to have contingency plans in place to address any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during a trial. The presence of alternate jurors is one such measure that helps maintain the integrity and efficiency of the legal process.
As the trial progresses and the jury deliberates on the case, Judge Merchan's proactive approach in preparing for a potential verdict demonstrates his commitment to ensuring a fair and orderly trial proceedings.
