Jury trial

Jury trial is a legal proceeding where a jury makes a decision or findings of fact, which then direct the actions of a judge. It is distinguished from a bench trial, in which a judge or panel of judges makes all decisions.

History

The concept of the jury trial has its roots in ancient Greece and Rome, but the modern concept of the jury trial was developed in England during the Middle Ages. The Magna Carta of 1215 established the right to a jury trial for certain cases.

Process

The process of a jury trial begins with the selection of the jury, a process known as voir dire. The jury is then sworn in, and the prosecution and defense present their cases. The jury deliberates and then delivers a verdict.

Role of the Jury

The jury's role in a trial is to impartially review the evidence presented, to decide on disputed issues of fact, and to apply the law as instructed by the judge in order to reach a verdict.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of a jury trial include the ability for peers of the accused to determine guilt or innocence, and the use of community standards to weigh evidence and testimony. Disadvantages can include the potential for bias among jurors, and the possibility of a jury not understanding complex legal issues or evidence.

Jury Trials Around the World

Jury trials are used in many countries around the world, but they are most common in common law systems. In some countries, such as France and Brazil, a mixed court of professional judges and lay jurors is used for serious crimes.

See Also

• Bench trial
• Grand jury
• Hung jury
• Jury nullification
• Jury tampering