Strengths and Weaknesses of Juries Flashcards
(11 cards)
Why is trial by peers a strength?
Juries represent a cross-section of society, promoting fairness and public confidence by allowing ordinary people to decide cases
What is a key benefit of jury independence?
Juries are free from pressure and do not need to justify their verdicts - protecting impartial decision-making
How does the jury system promote open justice?
Trials with juries are public and transparent, helping to ensure that justice is seen to be done.
Why is a lack of legal knowledge sometimes seen as a strength?
Jurors may use common sense and focus on morality and fairness, not just strict legal rules.
What is a benefit of the jury secrecy rule?
It allows jurors to deliberate freely without interference or fear of consequences
Protectred by: Comtempt of Court Act
Why is jury secrecy also a weakness?
It prevents any review of reasoning, making it impossible to check for bias , misunderstanding, or misconduct.
What is a concern regarding lack if legal expertise?
Jurors may struggle with complex evidence, especially in fraud or technical trials, leading to incorrect verdicts.
How can bias and prejudice affect jury fairness
Jurors may bring personal biases (racial, gender-based, or social) which can affect imartiality.
What issues arise from jury tampering?
In serious cases, jurors may be intimidated or bribed, leading to unfair trials and increased security costs.
Why is the use pf juries sometimes inefficient?
Trials with juries can be long, expensice and delayed, especially if jurors are dismissed or unavailable
What is a criticism of the random selection process?
While random, juries can still lack diversity, especially in complex or high-profile cases
