James Payer recently attended a Miami Dade Trial Lawyers Association event that was essentially a welcome ceremony for new trial lawyers joining the group. Along with introducing and recognizing those new members, the event focused on something that affects everyday people: the 7th Amendment right to have many civil disputes decided by a jury. The night served as a reminder that the jury system is not just a courtroom tradition. It is a key way the public stays involved in how justice is delivered in Miami-Dade and across South Florida.
The 7th Amendment says that in many civil cases, people have the right to ask a jury of regular community members to hear the evidence and make the decision, instead of having only a judge decide. That matters in real-life situations like serious injury claims, workplace disputes, and other cases where one side may have more power or resources. Trial lawyers help protect this right by preparing cases thoroughly, presenting them clearly, and making sure their clients have a fair chance to be heard. In a diverse place like South Florida, juries bring local voices and perspectives into the courtroom, helping outcomes reflect the community we live in.
