Two years after this film was released, the state of New York passed legislation that allowed women to sit on juries. National recognition via the Supreme Court would come decades later, so it was still left to the states in the meantime. The jury in this film is comprised entirely of men.
The Applejack Ann is drinking is a strong brandy distilled from apples, similar to calvados from France. Hard cider, on the other hand, is a relatively mild alcoholic drink made from fermented cider apples.
According to contemporary articles in The Hollywood Reporter, Franchot Tone and Wallace Beery were considered for the male lead.
Peedles is the unflappable, consummate gentlemen's gentleman. He will protect and serve his employer with a cool as a cucumber outward demeanor, no matter what turmoil might actually be taking place.