The Jury System

Question 1

List two features of the jury system

Answer 1

It represents a trial by peers.

Cross section of the community.

It represents one way in which the community can become involved with the legal system

Question 2

How are jurors initially selected?

Answer 2

The jurors are initially selected at random from the electoral roll

Question 3

Trial by peers, what does this mean?

Answer 3

meaning that the defendant is being judged by a cross section of the community.

Question 4

How does the community become involved?

Answer 4

be a witness

become a juror

Question 5

Outline the role of the jury( 4 points )

Answer 5

• Assess the facts of the case.
• Listen to, understand, remember and analyse all evidence
• Make a decision or verdict
• Put aside ALL prejudice and preconceived ideas.

Question 6

Why are deliberations secret?

Answer 6

so they arent biased.

so they cant be influenced by the people or media

Question 7

Number if jurors in a criminal trial, role of the jury in a criminal trial?

Answer 7

12

Question 8

Number of jurors in a civil trial, role of the jury in a civil trial?

Answer 8

6.

to determine on the balance of probablitites who is more correct

Question 9

Describe the role of a foreperson

Answer 9

to explain the court processes and assist other jurors

Question 10

Define beyond reasonable doubt

Answer 10

no doubt in the decision

Question 11

Define balance of probabilities

Answer 11

In a civil trial the jury must find for either the plaintiff or the defendant on the balance of probabilities.

Question 12

Define unanimous verdict

Answer 12

-

Question 13

Hung jury, define this term.

Answer 13

when the jury cannot reach a decision after a certain amount of time. The judge discharges the jury.

Question 14

Define majority verdict. When is this acceptable?

Answer 14

-

Question 15

Define the term damages

Answer 15

-

Question 16

Define the term plaintiff

Answer 16

-

Question 17

Who is ineligible, excused and disqualified form jury service?

Answer 17

-

Question 18

List 3 advantages of the jury system

Answer 18

• the jurors can contribute to the community

Question 19

List 3 disadvantages of the jury system

Answer 19

• costly

- time consuming

Question 20

What is the difference between a peremptory challenge and a challenge for cause? How many of each is allowed in a criminal trial?

Answer 20

peremptory challenges (meaning no reason needs to be given)

challenges for cause (where there is a legitimate reason).

Each side has six peremptory challenges.

Question 21

Juries have to give reasons for their verdict? TRUE or FALSE? Explain

Answer 21

-

Question 22

Does the jury play a role in sentencing in a criminal trial?

Answer 22

-

Question 23

How does this differ in a civil trial?

Answer 23

-