How Technology Can Influence The Impartiality Of Jurors
Fri Jan 15, 2010, 4:02 am | 1 Comment
We all know by now – after centuries of knowledge – that jurors cannot talk to anyone outside their close-knit 12-member family at the time. They cannot research the case. They are under the protection of the law – not because someone will harm them but that the jurors might harm someone on trial, either reaching a verdict against the innocent or in favor of the alleged criminal.
However, in this digital age, it is still possible to “quarantine” the jurors but if not implemented correctly by the authorities can bring about a verdict based on prejudiced opinion.
Media have reported that…
- An issue created national attention recently in Baltimore MD, where five jurors were accused of using a social-networking site to inappropriately discuss the ongoing trial of the city’s mayor.
- For centuries now, judges have instructed jurors to avoid reading newspaper stories about trials and to not discuss the case with one another, aside from their deliberations.
- They also warn them not to conduct their own investigations. The rules are designed to ensure that jurors contemplate only the evidence admitted at trial and at the appropriate time.
- Judges and legal experts are particularly concerned about how technology and culture are affecting jurors and a defendant’s right to a fair trial.
The last sentence should be of particular interest to many: “The defendant’s right to a fair trial.” I remember reading about a certain ruler who used to say “I rather see 70 people acquitted – even though they might have committed the crime they were charged for – than to see one innocent punished.
Moral of the story
Technology is obviously a great tool but it can be a great distraction as well. I don’t know the legality of such issues, but it seems highly unethical and inappropriate to talk to anyone outside the 12-members of the jury. I strongly advocate all the above points especially 2 and 3.
What do you think?
One Response to “How Technology Can Influence The Impartiality Of Jurors”
Good advice in this article, I’m a old classic car enthusiast