When a trial is ready to begin, the bailiff calls potential jurors into the courtroom. If damages of less than $10,000 are claimed in the case, 11 jurors will be called. If damages of more than $10,000 are claimed, 13 jurors will be called. The clerk or bailiff asks the potential jurors to stand, hold up their right hands, and swear or affirm they will truthfully answer the questions about to be asked of them. The judge will then tell you the names of the parties and their attorneys and briefly explain the nature of the case.
The judge will ask if you are related to anyone involved in the case, have any financial or other interest in the outcome of the case, have formed or expressed an opinion or have any personal bias or prejudice affecting how you might decide the case. If you don't think you can make a fair and impartial decision for any reason, you should tell the judge at this time.
The attorneys for each side might also ask you some questions. If the judge concludes you may not be able to make a fair decision, you will be asked to step down, and another prospective juror will be brought in to replace you. After the judge decides all potential jurors are qualified to fairly and impartially hear the case, the clerk will compile a list of jurors and give it to the attorneys. Each side will remove 3 names from the list. They do not have to give reasons for removing these names. If the amount claimed is under $10,000, the final jury will have 5 members. If it is more than $10,000, the jury will have 7 members. The remaining jurors then swear they will hear the case and give a verdict they believe to be true. The trial is ready to begin.