The jury system in the UK criminal justice process has... Show more
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
369
•
28 Jun 2025
•
Pros and Cons of Jury System in UK: Easy Guide for Kids
H_RRY
@h_rry
Disadvantages and Criticisms of the Jury System
While juries play a crucial role in the UK criminal justice system, there are several notable drawbacks and criticisms of their use.
One significant concern is the potential lack of true representativeness in jury selection. Critics argue that the process may exclude certain groups, such as the homeless or low-income individuals, leading to juries that don't accurately reflect the broader population.
Highlight: When juries refuse to convict in cases where the evidence seems clear, these "perverse" decisions can undermine public confidence in the fairness of the system.
The secrecy surrounding jury deliberations, while intended to protect jurors, can also be problematic. Since no reasons are given for verdicts, it's impossible to know if a jury fully understood the case or reached their decision for the correct reasons. This secrecy also prevents investigations into potential misconduct within the jury room.
Example: In R v Young , a murder conviction was quashed when it was discovered that some jurors had used a Ouija board to "contact" the victims during deliberations.
Bias among jurors is another potential issue. Individual prejudices against defendants can influence deliberations and verdicts, but these biases are difficult to detect or address if they only manifest in the jury room.
Media influence, particularly in high-profile cases, can potentially sway jurors' opinions before the trial even begins. The increasing use of the internet by jurors to research cases independently is also a growing concern, as it may introduce prejudicial information not presented in court.
Quote: In R v West , the Court of Appeal noted that if intense media coverage alone prevented fair trials, it would mean that "allegations of murder that were sufficiently horrendous so as to inevitably shock the nation, the accused could not be tried."
These disadvantages highlight the complex challenges in balancing the benefits of the jury system with the need for fair and consistent justice.
Jury Misconduct and External Influences
The integrity of jury deliberations is crucial to ensuring fair trials, but various forms of misconduct and external influences can compromise this process.
Appeal courts are prepared to investigate events occurring outside the jury room that could have impacted the decision-making process. This willingness to examine external factors helps maintain the integrity of jury verdicts.
Example: In R v Karakaya , a conviction was overturned when it was discovered that a juror had conducted an internet search and brought the results into deliberations.
The introduction of extraneous material into jury deliberations is a serious concern. With the widespread availability of information online, jurors may be tempted to conduct their own research, potentially exposing themselves to prejudicial information not presented in court.
Highlight: Information discovered through independent research may be harmful to the defendant, such as past convictions that the jury should not be aware of during the trial.
Media influence remains a significant challenge, especially in high-profile cases that receive extensive publicity. While judges often warn juries to consider only the evidence presented in court, the pervasive nature of media coverage can make it difficult for jurors to remain entirely impartial.
Definition: Pre-trial bias refers to preconceived notions or opinions that jurors may hold about a case before the trial begins, often influenced by media coverage or personal beliefs.
The increasing use of social media and the internet by defendants to share personal information adds another layer of complexity to the issue of jury impartiality. This digital footprint can potentially be accessed by jurors, further complicating efforts to ensure fair trials.
Understanding these challenges is crucial for legal professionals and policymakers as they work to maintain the integrity of the jury system while adapting to the realities of the digital age.
Advantages of Juries in Criminal Cases
The use of juries in criminal trials offers several important benefits to the justice system.
Juries are considered a cornerstone of democratic society, inspiring public confidence through their perceived impartiality and fairness. The right to be tried by one's peers is supported by judges and provides a safeguard against state overreach.
Highlight: Jurors are not legally qualified, allowing them to reach verdicts based on their own sense of fairness rather than strict legal precedent. This is known as jury equity.
The open nature of jury trials, with members of the public playing a key role, contributes to the transparency of the justice system. The need to explain legal points clearly to jurors also helps clarify the law for defendants.
Example: In R v Kronlid 1996, jurors acquitted protesters who caused £1.5 million in damage to a jet plane, likely sympathizing with their claim of acting to prevent alleged genocide.
The random selection process aims to create impartial juries representing a cross-section of society. This diversity in age, background, and perspective is seen as an advantage over trials decided solely by judges or magistrates.
Vocabulary: Jury equity - The principle that allows juries to reach verdicts based on their own sense of fairness, rather than strictly following legal precedents or statutes.
The secrecy of jury deliberations, protected by the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015, allows jurors to discuss cases freely without external pressure.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Pros and Cons of Jury System in UK: Easy Guide for Kids
H_RRY
@h_rry
The jury system in the UK criminal justice process has both advantages and disadvantages. This summary explores the key pros and cons of using juries in criminal trials, examining factors like public confidence, impartiality, and potential biases.
Key points:... Show more
Disadvantages and Criticisms of the Jury System
While juries play a crucial role in the UK criminal justice system, there are several notable drawbacks and criticisms of their use.
One significant concern is the potential lack of true representativeness in jury selection. Critics argue that the process may exclude certain groups, such as the homeless or low-income individuals, leading to juries that don't accurately reflect the broader population.
Highlight: When juries refuse to convict in cases where the evidence seems clear, these "perverse" decisions can undermine public confidence in the fairness of the system.
The secrecy surrounding jury deliberations, while intended to protect jurors, can also be problematic. Since no reasons are given for verdicts, it's impossible to know if a jury fully understood the case or reached their decision for the correct reasons. This secrecy also prevents investigations into potential misconduct within the jury room.
Example: In R v Young , a murder conviction was quashed when it was discovered that some jurors had used a Ouija board to "contact" the victims during deliberations.
Bias among jurors is another potential issue. Individual prejudices against defendants can influence deliberations and verdicts, but these biases are difficult to detect or address if they only manifest in the jury room.
Media influence, particularly in high-profile cases, can potentially sway jurors' opinions before the trial even begins. The increasing use of the internet by jurors to research cases independently is also a growing concern, as it may introduce prejudicial information not presented in court.
Quote: In R v West , the Court of Appeal noted that if intense media coverage alone prevented fair trials, it would mean that "allegations of murder that were sufficiently horrendous so as to inevitably shock the nation, the accused could not be tried."
These disadvantages highlight the complex challenges in balancing the benefits of the jury system with the need for fair and consistent justice.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Jury Misconduct and External Influences
The integrity of jury deliberations is crucial to ensuring fair trials, but various forms of misconduct and external influences can compromise this process.
Appeal courts are prepared to investigate events occurring outside the jury room that could have impacted the decision-making process. This willingness to examine external factors helps maintain the integrity of jury verdicts.
Example: In R v Karakaya , a conviction was overturned when it was discovered that a juror had conducted an internet search and brought the results into deliberations.
The introduction of extraneous material into jury deliberations is a serious concern. With the widespread availability of information online, jurors may be tempted to conduct their own research, potentially exposing themselves to prejudicial information not presented in court.
Highlight: Information discovered through independent research may be harmful to the defendant, such as past convictions that the jury should not be aware of during the trial.
Media influence remains a significant challenge, especially in high-profile cases that receive extensive publicity. While judges often warn juries to consider only the evidence presented in court, the pervasive nature of media coverage can make it difficult for jurors to remain entirely impartial.
Definition: Pre-trial bias refers to preconceived notions or opinions that jurors may hold about a case before the trial begins, often influenced by media coverage or personal beliefs.
The increasing use of social media and the internet by defendants to share personal information adds another layer of complexity to the issue of jury impartiality. This digital footprint can potentially be accessed by jurors, further complicating efforts to ensure fair trials.
Understanding these challenges is crucial for legal professionals and policymakers as they work to maintain the integrity of the jury system while adapting to the realities of the digital age.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Advantages of Juries in Criminal Cases
The use of juries in criminal trials offers several important benefits to the justice system.
Juries are considered a cornerstone of democratic society, inspiring public confidence through their perceived impartiality and fairness. The right to be tried by one's peers is supported by judges and provides a safeguard against state overreach.
Highlight: Jurors are not legally qualified, allowing them to reach verdicts based on their own sense of fairness rather than strict legal precedent. This is known as jury equity.
The open nature of jury trials, with members of the public playing a key role, contributes to the transparency of the justice system. The need to explain legal points clearly to jurors also helps clarify the law for defendants.
Example: In R v Kronlid 1996, jurors acquitted protesters who caused £1.5 million in damage to a jet plane, likely sympathizing with their claim of acting to prevent alleged genocide.
The random selection process aims to create impartial juries representing a cross-section of society. This diversity in age, background, and perspective is seen as an advantage over trials decided solely by judges or magistrates.
Vocabulary: Jury equity - The principle that allows juries to reach verdicts based on their own sense of fairness, rather than strictly following legal precedents or statutes.
The secrecy of jury deliberations, protected by the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015, allows jurors to discuss cases freely without external pressure.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user