Key facts
- Jurors in Bruce Lehrmann's Queensland rape trial may be questioned about their prior knowledge of the case.
- The prosecution intends to apply under Section 47 of the Jury Act for this questioning.
- Prejudicial pre-trial publicity is cited as a potential 'special reason' for the inquiry.
- The judge will have the final say on questions asked of potential jurors.
- Jurors may be discharged and replaced if their answers are deemed problematic.
Jurors in the upcoming rape trial of Bruce Lehrmann in Queensland could be questioned about their prior knowledge of him and the case. Lehrmann, 31, is scheduled to stand trial from November 2, facing charges of twice raping a woman in 2021.
During a mention in Toowoomba District Court, prosecutor Caroline Marco stated her intention to file an application under Section 47 of Queensland's Jury Act. This section allows for jury members to be questioned if a judge determines there are "special reasons," such as prejudicial pre-trial publicity, particularly in cases where a jury trial is sought.
If the application is granted, the prosecution can suggest questions, but the judge will have the final decision. In some circumstances, defence and prosecution may be allowed to cross-examine jurors under oath. Jurors whose answers raise concerns could be discharged and replaced from a pool of potential jurors before the trial commences.