Final answer:
Alternate jurors are chosen for some trials to serve as backups in case one of the original jurors cannot continue. They help ensure the smooth running of the trial and maintain the fairness of the process by providing a backup in case a juror becomes biased or unable to fulfill their duties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alternate jurors are chosen for some trials to serve as backups in case one of the original twelve jurors becomes unable to continue with the trial. The goal is to ensure that the trial can proceed smoothly and without interruption, even if one of the jurors is unable to continue for any reason.
Having alternate jurors also helps to maintain the fairness and impartiality of the trial. If a juror becomes biased or unable to fulfill their duties, they can be replaced with an alternate juror, ensuring that the final decision is made by a fair and impartial jury. This is important because a fair trial requires that the jury hear all the evidence and make their decision based solely on the facts presented in court.