PUBLIC LAW L4 - Legal Professionals - JURIES: HISTORY & FUNCTION

Question 1

Where do juries in criminal trials sit? (1)

Answer 1

Crown Court.

Question 2

How many jurors make up a jury in England and Wales? (1)

Answer 2

12.

Question 3

What cases do juries hear? (5)

Answer 3

Criminal cases, that are triable on indictment, where the accused pleads not guilty and triable either-way offences, where the defendant elects to have a trial before a jury.

Question 4

What is the role of juries in criminal trials? (2)

Answer 4

To determine issues of fact and to deliver a verdict.

Question 5

Can a jury be directed to a verdict? (2)

Answer 5

No and they must not be pressurised into returning a verdict, but a judge may direct a jury to acquit.

Question 6

What is jury equity? (1)

Answer 6

The principle that a jury may acquit anyone, regardless of the law or the weight of the evidence.

Question 7

Does a verdict have to be unanimous? (1)

Answer 7

No, majority verdicts are allowed ( at least 11)