The Texas Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates ("TEX-ABOTA") has officially adopted a statewide jury questionnaire, marking an important milestone in its ongoing mission to enhance the jury trial system across Texas. The new standardized questionnaire—developed through years of collaboration and shaped by input from more than 50 members—is designed to improve the jury selection process, particularly in complex civil and criminal cases.

TEX-ABOTA encourages the use of the questionnaire in larger cases and in courts that permit the venire panel to appear a day early to complete it. This approach allows counsel adequate time to review and evaluate potential jurors’ responses before voir dire begins. The questionnaire is available in both PDF and Word formats, giving lawyers and judges flexibility to tailor it for specific jurisdictions or case types.

“This project has been years in the making,” said Mitzi Mayfield, President of TEX-ABOTA. “Our goal is to provide a tool that helps lawyers and judges conduct jury selection more efficiently while promoting fairness and transparency in the process.”

The Jury Questionnaire Committee extended special recognition to Carmen Mitchell and Jim Grau for their leadership and long-term vision in initiating and advancing this project. TEX-ABOTA’s statewide questionnaire represents another significant step in the organization’s mission to uphold the Seventh Amendment right to a civil jury trial and to elevate the standards of professionalism, integrity, and civility within the legal profession.

About the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)

Founded in 1958, ABOTA is a national association of experienced trial lawyers and judges dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the right to a civil jury trial. With more than 7,600 members across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, ABOTA works to educate the public about the importance of the Seventh Amendment and to promote civility and professionalism in trial advocacy. Membership is by invitation only and reserved for trial lawyers with at least five years of active experience who have demonstrated exceptional skill, integrity, and civility.

About Chip Brooker

Chip Brooker is a Dallas-based trial lawyer recognized among The Best Lawyers in America, Texas Super Lawyers, and D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas. A member of ABOTA, he represents families in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, including 18-wheeler, tractor-trailer, and commercial vehicle crashes throughout Texas and across the United States. His courtroom results include seven, eight, and nine-figure verdicts and settlements, reflecting his relentless preparation, empathy for clients, and commitment to justice.

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