Judge O'Toole instructed two prospective-juror groups on questionnaires, the presumption of innocence, and sentencing duties if there were a death-eligible conviction. He addressed privacy and hardship requests and directed jurors to avoid case discussions, coverage, and outside research.
Full day summary
Judge O'Toole addressed morning and afternoon groups of prospective jurors, explaining the presumption of innocence and the government's burden of proof. If Tsarnaev were convicted of death-eligible crimes, the jury would decide between death and life imprisonment without the possibility of release. The judge instructed prospective jurors to complete questionnaires independently and truthfully, outlined court review of sensitive information before public release, and explained how hardship requests would be considered without guaranteeing excusal. He anticipated a late-January trial start and a trial lasting approximately three to four months. Prospective jurors were directed not to discuss the case, follow media coverage, or conduct independent research.