Supreme Court examines impact of errors in detecting bias during jury selection

For many attorneys (and their trial consultants) jury selection is perceived as the pivotal trial within a trial that provides them an opportunity to participate in assembling a jury that will be receptive if not predisposed to their position. For prospective jurors, jury selection is also seen as a "trial" but in the very different sense that they may see it as placing their beliefs and attitudes on trial. The trial judge may also feel as if he or she is on trial, as an erroneous ruling during jury selection can be grounds for reversal on appeal regardless of the evidence that is subsequently introduced.