May 23, 2026

Predicting Liability Decisions: The Importance of Juror Characteristics and Perceived Case Strength

A five-year empirical analysis of more than 2,000 mock jurors across 64 civil case research exercises, this report examines how juror demographics, pre-deliberation leanings, and perceived case strength shape liability decisions. The findings reveal that while gender and socioeconomic status influence juror predispositions, the strongest predictor of liability outcomes is perceived case strength, underscoring the importance of effective trial strategy and case presentation in civil litigation.

By Natalie Gordon, Ph.D.

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Mar 26, 2026

Public Attitudes About Liability for Suicides Committed After Chatbot Conversations

As lawsuits involving conversational AI systems have begun to emerge, with families alleging that chatbots encouraged or facilitated harmful behavior, the DOAR Research Center conducted a national study examining how Americans view the responsibility of AI companies when suicides occur.

By Ellen Brickman, Ph.D.

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May 14, 2025

Juror Attitudes Toward High-Tech Companies in Patent Litigation

In a changing patent litigation landscape, the DOAR Research Center studied how jurors view high-tech companies across key venues. While jurors often view technology companies favorably, skepticism remains around issues such as market power and fairness. The research shows that venue alone no longer drives risk. Instead, juror demographics and political orientation play a larger role, highlighting the need for precise jury selection and tailored trial strategies.

By Chad Lackey, Ph.D.

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Jun 24, 2025

Public Attitudes Toward White-Collar Crime in the Aftermath of the Presidential Election

Following the 2024 presidential election, the DOAR Research Center conducted a national survey revealing a shift in how jurors view white-collar cases. Traditional assumptions about defense- or prosecution-leaning jurors no longer hold. Instead, political identity, combined with demographic factors and trust in institutions, now plays a central role in how jurors evaluate corporate defendants, prosecutors, and enforcement priorities. The findings have important implications for jury selection and trial strategy in an increasingly polarized courtroom.

By Ellen Brickman, Ph.D.

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Research Center: Liability

Report cover showing a black and white photo of people from a high distance crossing the street at a crosswalk. Several people are shaded in a copper color.

May 23, 2026

Predicting Liability Decisions: The Importance of Juror Characteristics and Perceived Case Strength

Read Now