A Fulton County judge today greeted the first two waves of prospective jurors on the opening day of the Atlanta Public Schools test-cheating trial and implored them to give the 12 defendants a presumption of innocence.
"It's probably going to be terribly inconvenient," Superior Court Judge Jerry Baxter told the 100 jurors who assembled in a large ceremonial courtroom where the months-long trial will be held.
Four hundred prospective jurors -- they are coming to the courthouse in two waves of 50 per day -- have been called to duty for the case. The first wave arrived this morning, and the second wave was seated this afternoon. The jury will consist of 12 jurors and 11 alternates.
The first group filled out lengthy questionnaires today and then were allowed to leave; they will be called back for individual questioning later.
Baxter reminded the prospective jurors of their civic duty to serve. "It's part of being a citizen of this country," he said.
The judge told them not to read any news stories or watch any TV reports about the case and not to conduct any research about the case on their computers or cell phones.
He said the trial, once jury selection is finished, will be held Mondays through Thursdays. This will enable the court, prosecutors and the defense lawyers to conduct other business while the case is in court, expected to last at least three months.
Baxter also sternly warned all lawyers involved in the case not to be late for court. There will be substantial fines of at least $200 imposed upon tardy parties, he said.
"It's going to be very serious if you don't get here on time," Baxter said.
After the potential jurors began filling out questionnaires, Baxter, all 12 defendants, their lawyers and the prosecution team moved to Baxter's usual courtroom to hear pretrial motions.
Scott Smith, a lawyer for Theresia Copeland, the former testing coordinator at Benteen Elementary School, asked Baxter for a delay. Smith said he has not had enough time to prepare for trial.
Baxter denied that motion.
Related: staff writer Bill Rankin maps out the trial that commenced today.
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