What is a petit jury typically composed of?

A petit jury, also known as a trial jury, is typically composed of 12 members in most jurisdictions within the United States. This number allows for a sufficient representation of the community and provides a balanced perspective on the evidence presented during a trial. The 12 jurors listen to the case, review the evidence, and ultimately determine the verdict based on the standard of reasonable doubt in criminal cases or preponderance of evidence in civil cases.

While there may be variations in smaller or civil cases, the standard practice remains 12 members for a criminal petit jury to ensure a fair and impartial trial. In some jurisdictions, fewer jurors may be allowed under specific conditions, but 12 remains the traditional and widely recognized composition for serious offenses.