Rule 47(c). Alternate jurors. The court may direct that one or two jurors in addition to the regular panel be called and impaneled to sit as alternate jurors. Alternate jurors in the order in which they are called shall replace jurors who, prior to the time the jury arrives at its verdict, become unable or disqualified to perform their duties. An alternate juror shall not join the jury in its deliberation unless called upon by the court to replace a member of the jury. The alternate juror's conduct during the period in which the jury is considering its verdict shall be regulated by instructions of the trial court. Alternate jurors shall be drawn in the same manner, shall have the same qualifications, shall be subject to the same examination and challenges, shall take the same oath, and shall have the same functions, powers, facilities, and privileges as the principal jurors. An alternate juror who does not replace a principal juror shall be discharged after the jury arrives at its verdict. If one or two alternate jurors are called each party is entitled to one peremptory challenge in addition to those otherwise allowed by subdivision (b) of this rule. The additional peremptory challenge may be used only against an alternate juror, and the other peremptory challenges allowed by law shall not be used against the alternates.

     History: En. Sec. 47, Ch. 13, L. 1961; amd. Sup. Ct. Ord. May 1, 1990, eff. May 1, 1990.