How does trial by jury ensure due process for citizens in court?(1 point)
Responses
It ensures that the accused is given a speedy trial.
It ensures that the accused is given a speedy trial.
It protects citizens from self-incrimination.
It protects citizens from self-incrimination.
It ensures that all people have access to legal counsel.
It ensures that all people have access to legal counsel.
It ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, not a single judge.
Correct response:
It ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, not a single judge.
It ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, not a single judge.
The correct response is: "It ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, not a single judge."
Trial by jury ensures due process for citizens in court by ensuring that the guilt or innocence of the accused is determined by a group of their peers rather than a single judge. Here is how trial by jury operates to ensure due process:
1. Random selection of jurors: Jurors are selected at random from the community to ensure a diverse and representative cross-section of society. This helps to prevent bias and ensure a fair trial.
2. Impartiality: Jurors are expected to be unbiased and impartial. Before the trial begins, potential jurors are questioned to identify any potential biases that could affect their ability to make an impartial decision. This ensures that the jury consists of individuals who can fairly evaluate the evidence presented.
3. Deciding guilt or innocence: The jury is responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of the accused based on the evidence presented during the trial. They weigh the credibility of witnesses, evaluate the strength of the arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense, and deliberate to reach a unanimous decision or, in some cases, a majority vote.
4. Protection against government power: Trial by jury acts as a safeguard against potential abuses of power by the government. By involving members of the public in the decision-making process, it prevents a single judge from having complete authority over the outcome. This helps ensure that the rights and interests of the accused are protected.
Overall, trial by jury ensures due process by providing a fair and impartial decision-making process, involving the community in resolving legal disputes, and safeguarding individual rights and liberties.