The importance of jury service
August 24, 2009
Shaun Brown* was recently summoned for jury service in a murder case. He says he is fearful for his life, depending on the outcome of the case. As such, Brown plans not to turn up for court but wants to know the implications if he fails to do so.
Jury service is a critical element of the justice system in our country. A jury consists of ordinary citizens who are able to apply their common sense to the matter of determining the guilt or innocence of a fellow citizen accused of an offence. Under the guidance of the judge in the trial, jurors listen to the evidence presented and the case put forward by both sides. They then deliberate in private as to whether they believe that the facts as they have heard them prove the guilt of the accused person.
As citizens of their communities, jurors tend to understand the fine characteristics and habits of their society. Hence, juries play an important role in ensuring that the case brought against an accused person is considered with fairness and objectivity, and in light of the culture of our society.
What offences are tried by a jury?
a) All serious offences are tried by a Circuit (Supreme) Court judge sitting with a jury comprising 12 persons in murder or treason cases, and seven for other criminal offences.
Some offences tried by a jury include:
* Murder
* Manslaughter
* Rape and carnal abuse
* Robbery
* Arson
* Treason
Note: Offences (except murder) involving the use of a firearm are tried by a Supreme Court judge without a jury....
Author: Gleaner Reporter
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
