Jury Eligibility, Selection and Verdicts

What are the age requirements for jury service under the Criminal Justice Act 2003?

Individuals must be aged between 18 and 75.

What is one of the registration requirements for jury service?

Individuals must be registered on the local or parliamentary government electoral roll.

How long must an individual have lived in the UK to be eligible for jury service?

A minimum of 5 years.

What type of individuals are permanently disqualified from serving on a jury?

Anyone who has received a custodial sentence of 5 years or more, life imprisonment, or an imprisonment term for public protection.

What is the consequence for failing to attend jury service without a valid reason?

It is an offence punishable by a fine of up to £1000.

How are potential jurors selected for jury service?

They are randomly selected from the electoral roll using a computer system.

What is the typical size of a jury panel at the crown court?

A panel of 20-30 jurors is assembled.

How many jurors are randomly balloted to serve on a jury?

12 jurors are randomly balloted by the court clerk.

What is the role of the jury in crown court trials?

The jury acts as the sole arbiter of fact.

What does the judge decide in a crown court trial?

The judge decides the law.

What is the required verdict format for the jury?

The jury must attempt to reach a unanimous verdict (12-0).

What alternative verdict may the judge accept if a unanimous verdict is not reached?

A majority verdict (11-1 or 10-2) may be accepted.

What is strictly prohibited during jury deliberations?

No outside research is permitted.

What is the jury's decision limited to in a trial?

The jury only decides guilt or acquittal; sentencing is strictly for the judge.