Federal Gambling Corruption Trial LIVE Blog - WSFA.com: News Weather and Sports for Montgomery, AL.

Thanks for checking out our LIVE minute-by-minute blog of the federal gambling corruption trial being held in Montgomery, Alabama. Currently we're are on verdict watch as the jurors are out for deliberations.

This blog accepts viewer comments, but please understand it is not a chatroom. Viewers can submit questions, and we'll certainly do our best to answer many of them, but due the limited time and manpower inside the courtroom, our bloggers may be unable to answer all questions. You're more than welcome to follow along!

The live coverage will be suspended at the conclusion of each trial day, but viewers will still be able to review the coverage.

Our bloggers include JoBeth Davis, the Community Web Producer for WSFA.COM and Max Reiss, the Raycom News Network Political Reporter. WBRC Fox 6 in Birmingham is dedicating reporter Alan Collins to coverage as well.

For those who are new to coverage of this trial, here's a story that will outline the basics of this case. This story includes background information, the full indictments and trackback information.

Check out trial coverage in the stories below...

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

• Why can't we watch the trial coverage?
  Answer: Federal law prohibits recording inside a federal trial.
• Can I come to the trial?
  Answer: Yes, the trial is open to the public, but seating is limited and on a first-come basis. Cellphones and cameras are strictly prohibited. You must pass through security and you will not be allowed to enter or leave the courtroom while the judge is sitting.
• What is a "BIR"?
  Answer: A BIR is a Budget Isolation Resolution, a technical vote required in the House and Senate to bring up a bill before a budget bill. One of the points of contention in the trial is that members of the legislature were bribed to vote "Yes" to pass the BIR of SB380, a proposed constitutional amendment to let voters decide whether gambling should be legal in Alabama. (See how each senator voted)
• How long will this trial last?
  Answer: That question is anyone's guess, but most expect it will last at least 2 months.
• Why are the defendants being tried together?
  Answer: Several attempts were made to break the cases, but it was determined each of the 8 defendant's cases was related closely enough that they could be safely tried together. However, they are not all facing the exact same charges and could receive different verdicts. (Click a photo to the right to see what each defendants' charges.
• When will there be a verdict?
  Answer: We don't know when the trial will come to a completion. The jury started deliberations just before 4:00 p.m. on Friday, August 5.
• Is there a schedule for court?
  Answer: Now that deliberations have started the jury will meet seven days a week. The jury will meet on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Is the jury sequestered?
  Answer: Yes, during deliberations the jury is sequestered. They are only allowed to deliberate at the courthouse and only when all 12 jurors are present. The four alternates are also being sequestered through the end of the trial. After hours the jury is transported to an unidentified hotel. Their meals and lodging is being provided for. They are not allowed internet access nor can they watch most television channels due to media coverage.