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Originally posted by polarpi
While my mom and I were waiting to hear the verdict, we were also curious about this, but we speculated that the alternates (from our understanding) were in the courtroom the entire time, had heard all the evidence, so they likely already had some sort of opinion on whether Scott was guilty or not. Looking at it from this angle, we came to the conclusion that it wasn't that surprising it happened quickly.

Alternate jurors sit in the courtroom and hear the complete testimony; unlike the primary set of jurors who are sequestered in the jury room, they are sent home after deliberations commence with instructions to make themselves available at all times in the event they need to be contacted to replace a primary juror removed for illness or other cause. They fall under the same jury gag rule.