Legal Definitions - summary jury trial

A summary jury trial is a settlement technique where the parties present their arguments before a mock jury. The jury then reaches a nonbinding verdict that helps the parties evaluate their positions. This type of trial is also known as a nonbinding summary jury trial or a nonbinding minitrial.

For example, in a personal injury case, the plaintiff and defendant may agree to a summary jury trial to determine the strengths and weaknesses of their respective cases. The mock jury's verdict can help the parties decide whether to settle the case or proceed to a full trial.