How to Make Extra Cash as a Mock Juror

Have you ever wondered how the legal system works? Have you ever wanted to be a part of it? Now is your chance. You can make extra cash by becoming a mock juror.

In this blog post, I’ll discuss how you can become a mock juror and what the process entails. So, if you’re looking for a way to supplement your income or simply want to help out the legal system, keep reading to learn more about participating in a mock trial.

How Do Mock Trials Work?

Mock trials are staged to mimic a jury trial. These are carried out by attorneys preparing for an actual case or would-be attorneys preparing for court experience. 

Mock juries are formed by companies that hire mock jurors. The jury gives feedback to the firm, and the firm provides feedback to the lawyers so that they can see how a real jury would react to their case. 

In a mock trial, members of the community role-play as attorneys and witnesses in order to test the strength of a legal case. This process can be useful for Defendants who are considering a plea bargain or for Plaintiffs who want to gauge how likely they are to win at trial. 

Mock trials can also be used to train law students in trial advocacy. In some cases, mock trials are even used to research potential jurors’ reactions to different types of evidence. 

No matter what the purpose, mock trials typically follow the same general format: each side presents its case, witnesses are questioned, and then the jury (or judge) renders a verdict. While mock trials aren’t binding, they can give all parties involved a better sense of what to expect if the case does go to trial.

There are typically two kinds of mock trials:

• Online: Online mock juries are online, but they are still juries. You can watch videos, look at pictures, and read transcripts, just like in a regular trial, but they are virtual. You may not get paid as much, but you have the convenience of working from home. 
• Live: A live mock jury is a type of jury service in which you meet with other people in a public meeting space to discuss a case. Lawyers lead the discussion and record the proceedings, and you receive payment as soon as you leave to go home for the day.

What Does a Mock Juror Do?

Businesses or lawyers hire mock jurors to go through each stage of the legal procedure, from selection to swearing-in, hearing arguments, examining evidence, discussing, and reaching a decision.

After you’ve been chosen for an online jury, the case files of the mock trial will be delivered to you. You’ll be able to listen or read arguments from both sides, watch exhibits, listen to arguments, make a decision on the case, complete a questionnaire, and get compensated.

Requirements to Participate in a Mock Trial

To become a mock juror, there are a few requirements you’ll need to meet.

• You’ll need to be at least 18 years of age or older.
• You’ll need to be registered to vote in your state or territory.
• You must be able to serve on a jury if you’re summoned for jury duty.
• You must have the ability to read and write.
• You’ll need to be of sound mind.
• You can’t be an attorney, paralegal, legal assistant, or employed by a law firm in any capacity.
• You can’t be related to an attorney in any capacity.
• You can’t have any felony convictions or currently be charged with a crime. 

If you meet all of these requirements, you can fill out an online application to become a mock juror. Once you’re accepted, you’ll be notified of upcoming trials that you can participate in.

How Much Can You Make as a Mock Juror?

Trial payments vary based on the length of the trial and the complexity of the case. Typically, you can earn anywhere from $20 to $60 per trial. Some longer and more complex mock trials can pay over $100.

Before you sign up for a mock jury, make sure you understand the pay rules. The compensation varies from company to company. Additionally, some companies will withhold your earnings until you reach a certain amount. This is important information to know before you sign up for a mock jury.  

Where to Find Mock Juror Jobs

1) First Court

First Court is a nationwide organization that hires local people to become mock jurors.

To be considered, fill out the registration form, and you will be contacted when trials are available.

2) eJury

eJury is a company that was created by a trial attorney who realized that the internet could be used as an effective tool for attorneys. You must make an oath that you won’t disclose any of the information provided. 

To sign up, you’ll need to complete a demographic profile. Most cases pay $5 to $10 and are paid through PayPal.

3) Mock Jury Trials Online

Mock Jury Trials Online offers trial consultants and online jurors that are available globally. They have trial consultants and online jurors in the U.S., EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

To be considered, go to the “Contact Us” page and specify your interest in sitting for a mock trial.

4) JuryTest

With JuryTest, you watch a video of arguments in a legal case. Each video is typically 5 to 30 minutes long. After watching the video, you provide feedback about the case.

You’ll be paid between $5 and $50 per case. The amount of the payment depends on how long the case is. Payment is either by check or PayPal.

5) Verdict Services

Verdict Services assists attorneys in improving their case presentation skills by providing mock trials and focus groups. 

To be considered for a mock trial, you’ll need to go to their contact page and submit an email letting them know you’re interested.

6) OnlineVerdict 

OnlineVerdict was established by trial consultants in 2004. Each case review lasts 20 to 60 minutes and pays $20 to $60 per case review. Payment is by check within one to two weeks after the case is reviewed.

Complete and submit the juror sign-up form to be considered.

7) Virtual Jury 

Virtual Jury specializes in customized online focus groups for attorneys. These focus groups allow attorneys to forecast jury rulings.

To be considered, you’ll need to register, and they will contact you when a mock trial becomes available.

Final Thoughts

Being a mock juror can be a fulfilling side hustle, but it’s important to know these jobs are sporadic and not steady work.

Also, when you register with a mock jury company, you may or may not get selected to serve on a real jury. Your chances depend on your personal demographics (age, location, gender, etc.) and the company’s current demand.