Red Juries and Blue Juries
The article "Red Juries & Blue Juries”, written by law professor Richard Jolly, explores how increasing political polarization in the U.S. affects jury impartiality, potentially creating politically biased juries. It discusses the implications of "Red" and "Blue" juries, shaped by partisan leanings, on the fairness of trial outcomes. The article argues for reforms to ensure diverse jury pools and suggests that voir dire include explicit questioning about political biases to uphold the jury system's integrity.
To preserve impartiality in the justice system, courts should consider measures to mitigate political biases during jury selection processes.
Understanding The Trial Penalty
The NACDL's webpage and report on The Trial Penalty examines the disparity between sentences offered in plea deals versus those received after a trial conviction. It highlights that this discrepancy often pressures defendants to plead guilty, even if innocent, to avoid harsher sentences. The report calls for reforms to ensure fair-trial rights and mitigate coercive plea practices.
NACDL recommends that courts should be aware of the impact of trial penalties on defendants' decisions and consider reforms that promote fair sentencing and uphold the right to a fair trial.
For more details, visit NACDL - The Trial Penalty
Connecticut releases Report on Juror Demographic Data
The Juror Data Analysis Committee of Connecticut released its final report, focusing on the collection and analysis of juror demographic data to identify and reduce racial biases in jury selection. The report details the state's comprehensive data collection practices, including demographic surveys and activity records, and compares them to U.S. Census data to assess representativeness. It also reviews data collection methods from other states, suggesting that Connecticut's approach serves as a model for ensuring fairer and more diverse juries.
This report emphasizes the importance of robust data collection and analysis in identifying and addressing racial disparities in jury selection processes, encouraging other jurisdictions to adopt similar practices for more equitable justice.
Pilot Program Raises Juror Pay in Seven California Counties
Beginning September 3, superior courts in seven California counties have launched a pilot program to raise juror compensation from $15 to $100 per day beginning the second day of service. The counties selected as pilot courts for the program reflect the geographic and demographic diversity of the state. The pilot is part of a law signed by California governor Gavin Newsome that also allows jurors in California to be reimbursed for public transportation for jury service. This initiative aims to encourage more diverse participation in jury duty by reducing the financial burden on jurors. Funded by the state, the program seeks to enhance the fairness and inclusivity of jury pools, potentially serving as a model for other counties.
Coverage of the Shasta pilot can be found here—Shasta County Jurors are now set to receive $100 a day for jury duty (msn.com). The other six counties are Alameda, El Dorado, Fresno, Imperial, Monterey, and San Bernadino.