why was Buckly allowed to have the names of the jurors?

I get the feeling a plot arc was cut. it started with the prosecution having the confidential list, and then there were some nods and knowing glances between Spacey and the jury foreman, as if they were in cahoots. then there were the informal jury votes, in which the foreman clearly displayed his bias, and pressured the other jurors a bit

my sense is there was a whole narrative line about shenanigans between the prosecution and the jury foreman, which was eventually cut except for a few loose ends that remained


some of the best moments we pass in this life are in the dreams of others

I remember the jury selection business being a major plot line in the book, but it's been a long time since I read it, so details aren't coming to mind. I *think* maybe something about it was brought to the judge's attention. Sorry to be so vague, but wanted to confirm your keen suspicions! By the way, I recommend the book even to those who've seen the movie.

Unless Judge Noose personally addressed all the notifications himself, someone had a list of the names. Buckley got them in his usual way; some combination of bribery, favors, and "good ole boy" politicing.

I don't remember whether it was explicit in the movie, but Jake also had a copy of the list, courtesy of the well-connected, morally compromised Harry Rex Vonner.

You know what inspiration is? The momentary cessation of stupidity.
- SGM Jonas Blane

In the book even though the lists are supposed to be sealed both Prosecution and defense got access to them to try to find the perfect jurors for their side. Unfortunately the jury pool was made up of about 80% whites which severley tilted that in the prosecutions favor.

A few of the jury members in the book had a bigger backstory as well. some of them were straight out racist that talked about the case openly amongst themselves were and ready to convict on day one.

"Shotgun! Anal!"