Opinion ID: 2586281
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Juror S. K.

Text: In his responses to the written questionnaire, S. K. indicated he thought there were circumstances, such as a planned murder, where a defendant should receive the death penalty automatically. During voir dire, S. K. confirmed his responses to the questionnaire but acknowledged he made them before the court instructed him about the two options in the penalty phase. S. K. noted that he could separate his personal beliefs and his ability to consider both sentencing options. He stated he would follow the court's penalty instructions, and that he would consider the alternative penalty of life without the possibility of parole. S. K. responded to defense counsel that he understood the trial court's instruction that the law did not have a preference for the death penalty and that its imposition was not automatic. He also stated he would make his decision on penalty after listening to both sides. Although the trial court concluded that S. K. gave equivocal answers, the court was satisfied that S. K. was capable of fulfilling his juror responsibilities. The record supports the trial court's conclusion that S. K. did not hold views that would prevent or substantially impair the performance of his duties as a juror. ( Blair, supra, 36 Cal.4th at p. 743, 31 Cal.Rptr.3d 485,115 P.3d 1145.)