What is the role of the jury in criminal cases?

The role of the jury in criminal cases is very important in the criminal justice system. In California, juries play a major role in deciding whether someone is guilty or innocent. Juries are selected from a group of citizens who are chosen randomly from the community. Juries are responsible for listening to the evidence presented and reaching a verdict based on the facts. In criminal cases, the jury must decide if the defendant is “guilty beyond a reasonable doubt” or not guilty. This standard is very high because it is based on the principle that it is better to let a guilty person go free than to have an innocent person wrongly convicted. Juries also decide the sentence for criminal convictions. Depending on the severity of the crime, the judge can decide if the defendant should be sent to prison, be placed on probation, or be acquitted of all charges. During the sentencing phase, the jury hears evidence from both sides of the case and decides on the appropriate punishment for the defendant. Ultimately, the jury is responsible for weighing all the evidence presented and coming to a conclusion that is in the best interest of justice. All jurors in California must take an oath to serve on a jury with honesty and integrity and to remain unbiased throughout the process. With their important role, juries have the power to determine the fate of the accused.

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What is the role of the jury in criminal cases?

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