Jury System Overview

Front

What historical document introduced 'trial by one's peers'?

Back

Magna Carta 1215

Front

Who described the jury as 'the lamp that shows freedom lives'?

Back

Lord Devlin

Front

Who called the jury 'the cornerstone of the legal system'?

Back

Lord Blackstone

Front

What is the role of a jury in criminal cases?

Back

To decide the verdict of guilty/not guilty where the defendant pleads not guilty.

Front

What is the role of a jury in civil cases?

Back

To decide liability and the amount of damage.

Front

Where do juries sit in criminal cases?

Back

In the Crown Court for indictable and triable either way cases.

Front

Which acts govern the jury system?

Back

The Juries Act 1974, Criminal Justice Act 2003, and Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015.

Front

What do juries consider in a trial?

Back

Juries consider fact; judges consider the law.

Front

What is required for a jury's decision?

Back

A unanimous decision (12-0) or a majority (11-1, 10-2).

Front

How many members are in a jury?

Back

12 randomly selected members of the public.