Most European nations have abolished the use of juries, or severely limit it, and use a judge system or “professional jurors”–a paid occupation for specialists in this role. This is partly based on the belief that trial judges or profession jurors are likely to do a better job of assessing complex evidence than one who lacks certain knowledge and expertise.
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Answer the following questions:
- Which three (3) tips provided by the prosecuting attorney’s office did you find to be most important? Why?
- If necessary to get a conviction for a serious crime, such as the rape of a child, in which law enforcement officers believe the defendant is guilty, is it acceptable for law enforcement officers to “stretch the truth”? Why or why not?
- What do you think about individuals who commit serious crimes, such as rape or murder, who get off on “technicalities” or due to the jury feeling pressured?
- Some believe the U.S. should go to a judge/professional juror system versus a jury-of-your-peers system. (Research this.) What do you suggest?