preview

The Jury System : An Important Method Used For Many Trials

Good Essays

The Jury system is an important method used for many trials, however some debate that the system should be scrapped for criminal trials in NSW, in exchange for a judge only trail. Many argue this statement but from evidence that has been gathered, I am in support of this statement and argue with it, that the most accurate judgement is only declared by a trained legal professional like a judge or magistrate. There are many arguments, cases and legislations which provide an evident database of statements that may appeal to the use or misuse of the jury system. These documents and statements arise from many articles, legislations and cases including; R v Gittany case, the Jury Act 1977 and various media reports.
A jury is made up of 12-15 members of the community that are randomly selected to hear evidence presented in a court case, apply laws directed by the judge, and reach a verdict about whether or not the defendant is innocent or guilty.
The Jury system is trusted and reliable by many courts in NSW, which is why they have been continued. Having 12 other people be in a court room to assist the judge in making a decision improves the accuracy because a judge may get stuck and find it tough to come up with a final decision. Having a jury to assist you and give you an opinion is more reliable because it is not only one person, and undermines any one sided favor. The jury is more outspoken as they speak freely and are not represents of the law. Under the legislation it is a

Get Access