NCJ Number
227659
Date Published
March 2009
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study explored the possibility of using jurors as a means of ascertaining informed public opinion on sentencing in Tasmania.
Abstract
Results provide evidence that surveying jurors is a promising method of ascertaining informed public opinion abut sentencing. Jurors appeared willing to participate and reasonable response rates were achievable. This research could be improved if funding were provided to allow jurors to be compensated for their involvement. While the time taken to gather a reasonable sample size in a small jurisdiction like Tasmania is considerable, this would not be a drawback in most places. There are cost advantages to this method. Because jurors view a real trial, the costs associated with preparing and presenting scenarios for focus groups or deliberative polls can be avoided. Costs can be lowered further by using court staff to assist with the survey by transcribing sentencing submissions, handing out and collecting self-completed questionnaires, and providing the results to researchers. Data were collected from 257 jurors in Tasmania. Tables, figures, and references