Jury Trials

The Government has announced plans to remove the right to a jury trial where the sentence is likely to be less than 3 years imprisonment.

The Government says this is necessary to reduce the Crown Court backlog.

The Opposition says the backlog wasn't caused by jury trials and the problem won't be solved by reducing the number that are permitted.

Which of these statements is closest to your view?

I agree with the Government's view: It is more important to reduce the Crown Court backlog.

I agree with the Oppositions view: It is more important to preserve the right of defendants to a jury trial.

If you were accused of an offence where you faced a term of imprisonment of less than 3 years would you rather your case was heard by:

A judge sitting with a jury.

A judge sitting alone.

How important do you think trial by jury is to ensuring fairness in the criminal justice system?

Very important

Fairly important

Not very important

Not important at all

Don’t know

Would you like to say anything else about Jury Trials?