Part 3: People in Court (Jury, Judiciary, and Professionals)

Why is the jury called the "Bulwark of the liberties"?

It is seen as a protection for the individual against the power of the State

What is the primary role of a jury in a criminal trial?

To be the tribunal of fact and determine what actually happened

Can a judge direct a jury to return a guilty verdict?

No, according to R v. Wang (2005), the judge must leave the decision to the jury

What is "Jury Equity"?

The ability of a jury to acquit according to their conscience, even if it goes against the law or evidence (e.g., R v. Gilderdale)

How many people sit on a standard jury?

12 people

What is a "majority verdict"?

A verdict where at least 10 out of 12 jurors agree, allowed to prevent one juror from blocking the process

What are the three basic eligibility criteria for jury service?

1) Registered elector, 2) Aged 18 to 75, 3) Resident in the UK for 5 years since age 13

Are judges and lawyers eligible for jury service?

Yes, they have been eligible since the reform in 2003

Why were convictions quashed in cases involving police officers or CPS solicitors as jurors?

Because of "apparent bias"; justice must be seen to be done

Can a person with a criminal record serve on a jury?

Certain sentences result in disqualification for 5 years, 10 years, or life

What is "Jury Vetting"?

Checking jurors' backgrounds for criminal records or, in national security cases, for extremist views

Is it a crime for a juror to conduct internet research on a case?

Yes, under the Juries Act 1974 (as amended in 2015), it is a criminal offense

What did the Vicky Price Case (2013) demonstrate?

Issues with jury competency, where the judge discharged the jury for failing to understand basic legal concepts

Who is the highest-ranking judge in England and Wales?

The Lord Chief Justice (LCJ)

What is the role of the "Master of the Rolls"?

The president of the Civil Division of the Court of Appeal

How were judges appointed before the 2006 reforms?

By the Lord Chancellor through a secretive "secret sounding" process

What is the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC)?

An independent body responsible for selecting judges based on merit and good character

At what age must judges usually retire?

70 years old

How can a senior judge (High Court or above) be removed from office?

Only by the King following a petition from both Houses of Parliament

: Why are judicial salaries paid from the "Consolidated Fund"?

To ensure independence by removing them from annual political debate in Parliament

What happened in R v. Bow Street Metropolitan Stipendiary, ex parte Pinochet?

A decision was set aside because Lord Hoffmann had undeclared links to Amnesty International, creating an impression of bias

What is a "High-street firm"?

A small partnership of solicitors dealing with local, day-to-day legal concerns like divorce or conveyancing

What is "conveyancing"?

The legal paperwork involved in buying and selling property

What are the four "Inns of Court"?

Professional associations in London that "call" barristers to the Bar

What is the "Second Rule" (now relaxed) for barristers?

The rule that a client must see a solicitor first, who then refers the case to a barrister

Why are some barristers called "Juniors"?

It refers to all barristers who have not yet been appointed as King's Counsel

When were women first allowed to become lawyers in the UK?

Since the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act 1919

What percentage of senior judges are Oxbridge graduates according to the sources?

75%

What is the "Small Claims Online" system (MCOL)?

A website for disputes under £10,000 against no more than two people

What is the "Declaratory Theory" often called by critics like Lord Reid?

A "fairy tale"