Thus, it is essential to be effective in urging the presiding judge to allow attorney voir dire or at least to use and follow up on well-crafted voir dire questions. The method for and limitations on the exercise of peremptory strikes is likewise controlled by the trial judge. Because the variations in seating, excusing and replacing jurors varies so widely, it is essential to understand the judge's method in advance. Their use is permitted by some judges in some cases. One advantage to questionnaires is avoiding the more public discussion of personal information by jurors.
Some individuals are likely to be more candid in a semi-confidential writing than in open court.
The questionnaire would also reduce the possibility of an outburst that could infect an entire panel. Due to the invasive nature of the process, getting personal information from jurors must be justified by the needs of the case. A party's interest in manipulating sophisticated social science profiles and personality evaluations is not worthy of recognition. The selection of an impartial jury does not entail consideration of such matters. Moreover, the practical consideration of avoiding possible juror resentment of invasive questioning counsels against going too far.