Why the jury system is flawed?

Why the jury system is flawed?

Juries are biased. Juries disregard the judge’s instructions or the law itself when reaching a verdict. Juries know too much about a case from media publicity to be able to render a fair judgment, or juries know too little and are unable to comprehend the issues in complex cases.

Do you have to be smart to be a juror?

You do not need any special skills or legal knowledge to be a juror. All you need is an open mind and a readiness to work with the other jurors to make decisions.

What are the disadvantages of a jury?

A jury trial may not always ensure the best outcome for every case. There are a number of disadvantages to having a trial by jury. As the people on a jury do not generally have a legal background, it is possible that they may not entirely understand complex legal documents or argument, or in-depth forensic evidence.

What are Witherspoon Excludables?

prospective jurors who so strongly oppose the death penalty that they are unwilling to consider it as a sentencing option and are therefore excludable from a death-qualified jury.

Is being on a jury a waste of time?

You’re being asked to perform a fundamental role within your government. Unfortunately, jury duty is often perceived as a waste of time or unimportant. They need to know that they’ll have their day in court before a jury of their peers. If you’re called for jury duty, it’s important to show up and do the best you can.

What are strengths of having a jury?

Strength 1:

• Strength 1: Juries are a cross-section of the community and reflect prevailing community attitudes.
• Cross-section of the community:
• Strength 2:
• Trial by peers:
• Strength 3:
• Legal system remains intelligible to the ordinary person.
• Strength 4:
• Judge educates the community about the legal system:

What did Witherspoon v Illinois do?

Illinois, 391 U.S. 510 (1968), was a U.S. Supreme Court case where the court ruled that a state statute providing the state unlimited challenge for cause of jurors who might have any objection to the death penalty gave too much bias in favor of the prosecution.

Do jurors get paid in USA?

Federal jurors are paid $50 a day. Jurors can receive up to $60 a day after serving 45 days on a grand jury. Jurors also are reimbursed for reasonable transportation expenses and parking fees. Jurors also receive a subsistence allowance covering their meals and lodging if they are required to stay overnight.

Can you say no to jury UK?

You can also ask to be excused from jury service if you’ve done it in the last 2 years. To ask to be excused, reply to your jury summons explaining your reasons in detail. You might need to give proof, for example, if you’re ill you might be asked for a letter from your doctor.