When can personal information about jurors be released?

• A. The judge may release after application by a party in the trial or a bona fide member of the news media upon a showing of good cause
• B. It may be released only with a court order and privacy laws
• C. It may be released only after juror seating
• D. The judge may release after application by a party in the trial or a bona fide member of the news media upon a showing of good cause

Answer: (D)

Access to juror information is limited and controlled by a process. Release is permitted only after a formal application to the judge, made by a party in the trial or by a bona fide member of the news media, and there must be a showing of good cause. This requirement ensures privacy is protected unless there is a legitimate need for disclosure, and it gives the judge the discretion to balance the interests of a fair trial, juror safety, and the public’s right to knowledge. The rule is not triggered simply by privacy laws or automatic release; it depends on a demonstrated need and a court, not an automatic or timing-based rule. The emphasis on good cause and a proper application helps ensure that any disclosure is narrowly tailored and justified.