For misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor jury trials in Minnesota, what is the minimum number of jurors required?

In Minnesota, for misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor jury trials, the minimum number of jurors required is six. This is established by Minnesota law, which specifies that trials for such offenses may proceed with a smaller jury compared to felony trials, which typically require twelve jurors.

This provision allows for a more efficient trial process in cases where the stakes are lower, reflecting the nature of misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor charges. By permitting a jury of six, the legal system balances the need for a fair trial with the practical considerations of court resources and case management.

The standards for jury size are designed to ensure that defendant rights are maintained while also accommodating the requirements of the judicial system. This approach recognizes that while jury decisions should be informed by a group of peers, it also does not always need the same level of juror diversity as more serious crimes.