Anonymous asked this question on 4/28/2000:

Do you know what the advantages/disadvantages are of the jury system? Do you know of any web sites about them either? Thankyou :-)

tcsmpsi gave this response on 4/28/2000:

Good Morning,

The jury system. In our society, this is the ultimate 'trial'. The final determination of 'right and wrong'. The ultimate decision of our criminal justice system.

The intent, and for all practical purpose, the outcome, of the jury system is to provide determination of 'guilt' or 'innocence' by an objectively selected representation of the accused' peers. A segment of the society of which he/she is accused of commiting a criminal act(s) against. In this, is the advantage of jury trial in our social criminal justice system. 'Being as fair as we possibly can'.

The greatest 'disadvantage', is in the fact that we are placing the burden of judgement on the mind of human being. Coupled then with the 'untrained' mind of the 'average citizen'. But then too, that is the foundation of the jury system, as all acts are judged by ordinary standards of reasonablness of the average citizen.

Then, we become faced with the realities of the system. The 'picking of the jury'. This is not always as 'objective' as was it's intent. Yes, attorneys and prosecutors 'borderline cheat' in this. Also, a real problem there too is the fact that the accused is usually allowed to assist the defense in determining 'friendly jurors', which when found out by jurors, can and is many times in itself intimidating to the juror(s). "This criminal knows about me". And this can consciously and subconsciously impact a juror's decision.

Has this been of any assistance??

If I can add more, please let me know.

Sincerely, tcsmpsi

Anonymous asked this follow-up question on 4/28/2000:

Yes, thankyou veyr much, that was very good! Do you know of any web sites about the Australian jury system? Or the jury system in general? and are there any more, however small/big advantages or disadvantages? Thanks!

tcsmpsi gave this response on 4/29/2000:

Taking a break from class, and letting students have a break (and me) :-)

I will look and let you know asap.

sincerely, tcsmpsi

Anonymous asked this follow-up question on 4/29/2000:

great, thankyou :-)

tcsmpsi gave this response on 5/1/2000:

Good Morning!

I have not been able to find, at this time, any websites relating to what we are speaking of per se. I can't think of any other particular advantages or disadvantages right off hand, but then most all will come under the generality of what we have already discussed, I do believe.

If you need anything, please contact me.

Always, Michael (tcsmpsi)

The average rating for this answer is 5.

Anonymous rated this answer a 5.

Thanks! :-)