How does trial by jury ensure due process for citizens in court?
A. it ensures that the accused is given a speedy trial
B. it protects citizens from self-incrimination
C. it ensures that all people have access to legal counset
D. it ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, and not a single judge
D. it ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, and not a single judge
D. it ensures that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, and not a single judge
The correct answer is D. Trial by jury ensures due process for citizens in court by ensuring that members of the public decide the guilt of the accused, rather than a single judge. This helps to prevent any potential bias or unfair judgment from a single individual.
To understand why trial by jury ensures due process, we need to have a basic understanding of what due process means. Due process is the principle that all individuals are entitled to fair treatment under the law, including a fair and impartial trial.
Trial by jury satisfies due process for several reasons. First, a jury is composed of ordinary citizens who are selected at random from the community. They are expected to be impartial and make decisions based on the evidence presented during the trial. This helps to ensure that the trial is fair and that the accused receives a fair hearing from their peers.
Secondly, trial by jury provides a system of checks and balances. Instead of leaving the decision solely up to a single judge, a jury brings different perspectives and experiences to the table. This helps to minimize the chance of any individual biases affecting the outcome of the trial.
Lastly, trial by jury adds an element of transparency and accountability to the judicial process. The presence of a jury allows for public scrutiny of the trial, ensuring that the legal system remains transparent and accountable to the people it serves.
In summary, trial by jury ensures due process for citizens in court by involving members of the public in deciding the guilt of the accused. This helps to prevent biased judgments and adds transparency and accountability to the judicial process.