The Jury System: Grand Juries and Trial Juries
Origin and History of the Grand Jury
The grand jury has a long and honorable tradition. It was recognized in the Magna Carta, the first English constitution, in 1215. The grand jury was originally a group of 24 men who were summoned to investigate crimes and present indictments to the court. Over time, the grand jury's role has evolved, and it now serves primarily to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the accused should stand trial.
Regular Trial Juries
Regular trial juries consist of six or 12 people, depending on the jurisdiction. In the federal system, a grand jury ranges from 16 to 23 people. The jurors are selected from a pool of prospective jurors who have been summoned to court. The selection process is designed to ensure that the jury is representative of the community and that the jurors are fair and impartial.
Jury Selection Process
To determine the eligibility of prospective jurors, the clerk of the court sends each a mandatory questionnaire to complete and return. The questionnaire asks questions about the juror's background, experience, and beliefs. The clerk of the court then uses the questionnaires to select a pool of prospective jurors who will be summoned to court for further questioning by the judge and attorneys.
Jury Duty Myths
There are many myths about jury duty. One common myth is that jurors are paid very little. In reality, jurors are typically paid a nominal fee for their service. Another common myth is that jurors are required to serve for a long period of time. In reality, most trials last only a few days or weeks.
The Juror Experience
The juror experience can be both rewarding and challenging. Jurors have the opportunity to play a vital role in the justice system by helping to ensure that the accused receives a fair trial. However, serving on a jury can also be stressful, especially in high-profile or complex cases.
Conclusion
The jury system is an essential part of the American justice system. Juries play a vital role in ensuring that the accused receives a fair trial and that the community's values are upheld.
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