(Preferably, the interviewer should be someone other than the attorney who conducted the trial in order to avoid introducing bias into interviews. Ideally, he or she would be someone who was not too closely tied to the case and will be relatively objective. The interviewer should avoid telling the juror on whose behalf the discussion is being undertaken until after the interview is completed. Most jurors will agree to the interview, if they are assured that they will be told at the end of the meeting who requested it. If necessary, the interviewer can explain to the juror why he or she prefers to discuss this after the meeting by stating, "I want you to feel free to give your opinions on a number of topics. It is usually most helpful if we wait until the end of the interview to talk about who will be getting the feedback." In practice, this is not a very big issue. Most jurors are satisfied with the explanation of the importance of their remaining naive.)

(First choice: the "persuaders" - the three or four most verbal peopleon the panel. The most information and the most useful information is often obtained from these interviews. These people are also usually most willing to voice their opinions. Next, seek out "participants," - those who were undoubtedly talkative during deliberations, but probably weren't the leaders or coalition builders. Don't waste time contacting "non-participants.")

(Immediately after trial, have interviewer on hand to meet juror sand ask for phone numbers in person. This brief introduction facilitates future contact and saves hours of tracking down jurors' phone numbers later. Initiate contact about a week after the trial. This gives jurors time to unwind, but not enough time to exhaust their desire to talk about the trial. Most welcome an opportunity to have someone's undivided attention as they re-count their experience on jury duty.)

(Telephone interviews are certainly the most efficient, but much more can be gained from face-to-face interviews. Jurors will almost always permit recording of the interview, which is very important. Transcripts of the interviews are the most valuable source of information for the trial attorney, rather than summaries prepared by an interviewer.)

(Very rarely is it necessary to offer payment. If it seems necessary with a particular juror who is important to interview, suggest twenty-five dollars as `payment for their time,' or as money `to take their spouse to lunch to make up for their taking time away from home to attend the interview.' Generally payment is not needed or advisable.)