Juries in England and Wales have been found to be fair, effective and efficient according to a study published by the Ministry of Justice today.
Commenting on the findings Lord Justice Thomas, Deputy Head of Criminal Justice, said:
“Trial by jury is fundamental to the administration of justice, and confidence in the jury system is equally important. The judiciary are most grateful to Professor Thomas for this excellent survey of the wide ranging aspects of the jury system in England and Wales.
“One area of obvious and particular interest to the judiciary is the way in which the judge gives directions to a jury. The report recommends that work be undertaken by the judiciary in relation to ensuring the directions are readily understandable.
“Work has been underway in this important area for some time. For example, steps are being taken to ensure that more written material is available for juries. The Judicial Studies Board now recommends that written directions be given to juries in all but the most simple of cases and will consider, in detail, the recommendations made in the report.
“It must always be remembered that juries considering their verdict can ask the judge for clarification of any aspect of the case.”
Ends
Notes to Editors
- A copy of Professor Cheryl Thomas’ research, commissioned by the Ministry of Justice, can be found on the
Ministry of Justice website. - For further information please contact the Judicial Communications Office on 020 7073 4852.
