StudySpace: We the People ed. 6

What You Can Do

The U.S. jury system for federal courts was borrowed from the British in 1789. At that time, British trials required a unanimous verdict. In the 1960s, however, the British laws were changed to allow verdicts of ten to two, although judges are supposed to try to get unanimous verdicts. Another difference is that the British attorneys cannot pick their juries, a process we call voir dire. A third contrast is that British judges are allowed to give more guidance to jurors; they can comment on the case and on the evidence.

Select one of the three British reforms and list the advantages and disadvantages of changing U.S. law.

1. Advantage
   
   

2. Disadvantage
   
   

3. Which side has the stronger arguments, in your opinion?
   
   

4. Of these three reforms, which one do you like the most? The least? Why?
   
   

5. Which of these reforms would be most effective in reducing inequality in the judicial system? Why?
   
   

6. Do you think Americans would tolerate any changes to the existing judicial system? If so, what changes?
   
   

7. Does the U.S. system of justice provide both justice and fairness? Explain