Jury is a fundamental pillar upholding the principles of justice in the legal system: fairness, impartiality, and the right to trial by one’s peers. A jury, composed of twelve people for serious criminal trials and fewer for civil cases, provides a critical check on the judicial process by ensuring that court decisions reflect community values and standards. Whether they are deliberating over evidence or interpreting a judge’s instructions, jurors must interpret and grasp the complexities of law to render an informed decision.

While the composition and size of a jury differ between countries, most jurisdictions require that it be a random sample from the community. The selection process varies, but prospective jurors are often required to attend jury pools for a set period of time and must be willing to accept summons to appear for a case. In addition, the jury selection procedure must meet constitutional requirements for due process.

After the trial concludes, the jury retires to a private room to discuss the case and reach a verdict. The judge gives them specific instructions concerning how to weigh evidence and apply the law. In modern times, most jurors are also instructed that it is their duty to follow the law as directed by the judge, even if they feel that the law is unjust or unfair, a principle known as “jury nullification.” In the past, important exercises of jury nullification have involved slavery, freedom of the press, and freedom of religion.