Bill > HB3359

This bill amends the Jury Act and the Code of Civil Procedure to modify jury selection procedures. The bill increases the number of petit jurors that can be drawn from 14 to up to 16 when alternate jurors are needed. It also allows courts to impanel up to 4 alternate jurors instead of the previous limit of 1 or 2. When alternate jurors are part of the jury selection process, each side will be allowed one additional peremptory challenge (a method of dismissing potential jurors without stating a specific reason), which can only be used against alternate jurors. The changes are technical in nature and aim to provide more flexibility in jury selection and ensure a full jury panel during trials. These modifications will apply to all civil actions commenced or pending on or after January 1, 2026, giving courts and legal practitioners time to prepare for the new procedures. The bill maintains existing rules about peremptory challenges, such as each side being entitled to 5 challenges, with potential for additional challenges if multiple parties are involved.

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https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3359&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104