Racial Equality in Jury Selection

Abstract

This brief article serves as a tribute to former Chief Judge Robert Bell, who recently retired from the Maryland Court of Appeals, and describes his legacy in support of racial justice in jury selection.

Chief Judge Robert Bell is so well known for his groundbreaking efforts in support of access to justice programs — whether through expanding lawyer assistance opportunities or creating problem-solving courts — that his other significant legal accomplishments are often overlooked. The quest for racial equality in jury selection is one aspect in which Chief Judge Bell’s contributions have made an important and long-lasting impression. Chief Judge Bell has written eight precedent-setting opinions examining peremptory challenges and voir dire claims under federal and state law.

Keywords: Maryland Court of Appeals, Chief Judge Robert Bell, racial equality, racial justice, jury selection, courts

JEL Classification: J78, J79, K19, K39, K41, K49