NCJ Number
109001
Date Published
1985
Length
285 pages
Annotation
This document presents for discussion purposes the preliminary analyses and tentative conclusions and recommendations of the New South Wales Law Reform Commission regarding the jury system in criminal trials.
Abstract
The commission's work began in 1982. The discussion traces the origins, development, and current operation of the jury system, with emphasis on its administration outside the courtroom and its use in criminal trials. The analysis focuses on the following issues: selecting jurors, shielding jurors from prejudice, presenting evidence to jurors, and communicating with jurors. It also examines jury deliberation, the jury's verdict, and the special problems involved in long and complex trials. Law and procedures relevant to the jury system are summarized, and problem areas are identified. Footnotes, 38 references, and forms on which to comment on issues and proposals. For related documents, see NCJ 108999-109000.