Introduction
The USA is probably the country with the most frequent jury trials. A Jury Service is a kind of go-between for the judiciary and ordinary citizens. It involves active citizens of different classes, different ages, and various professions in the functioning of the courts. It also gives them the right to protect the accused against bias or unjustified verdicts. Therefore, jury duty is a crucial element of the judicial branch of government, contributing to the development of a democratic state.
Impact of Jury Service on Democracy
A Jury Service is an integral part of the U.S. judicial branch, due to which people can make responsible decisions and understand that their opinion is essential to the state. It reminds citizens that they live in a truly democratic state. Thomas Jefferson has claimed that “trial by jury is the only anchor, by which a government can be held to the principles of its constitution” (as cited in Kolbe, 2020, p. 16). Moreover, those involved in Jury Service become more educated and know how the judicial system works. They realize that a person’s fate depends on their decision and try to be as objective as possible. Thus, jury duty is a significant civic responsibility, strengthening democracy.
Trial by jury also contributes to increasing trust in the state. It convinces the accused that their case will be examined impartially. Although many people think that the main thing in such a trial is to appeal to the jury’s emotions or even move them to pity, juries can be more objective than professionals. Juries Service eliminates the likelihood of corruption, injustice, and bias (Kolbe, 2020). Therefore, the accused will be sure that active and objective citizens will judge them.
The Seventh Amendment: Importance and Effect
Due to the Seventh Amendment, the position of the Jury Service has strengthened, and its powers have expanded. Firstly, this Amendment limits the judge’s power to change the decision of the jury. Secondly, it allows that cases to be considered by Jury Service if claims exceed twenty dollars. This Amendment also means that juries can hear any civil suits, considering all facts, evaluating them, and pronouncing the verdict (Kolbe, 2020). As for its potential effect on my life, this Amendment suggests that if I file a lawsuit where the claims are more than twenty dollars, the case can be tried by juries. It also guarantees that my case would be heard and decided by those who cannot be bribed. Hence, the Seventh Amendment is a significant law that is a base for the functioning of Jury Service.
Conclusion
Jury Service is significant for U.S. democracy: it involves citizens in state affairs and increases residents’ trust in the government. The Seventh Amendment expands the powers of juries, giving them the right to examine different civil cases at common law if the value in controversy shall is more than twenty dollars. Thus, Jury Service is a critical component of democratic states and the fundamental right of any U. S. citizen.
Reference
Kolbe, D. C. (2020). The American criminal jury trial: Justice and democracy in action. Law and World, 14, 14-20. Web.