Jurors 'do not understand law'

Two thirds of jurors In England Wales do not understand the law prescribed by judges in court.

The report for the Ministry of Justice, was carried out on 68,000 verdicts over a two year period.

However, the report also found that the England and Wales justice system was fair and free of racial prejudice.

The study staged simulated trials and then asked jurors whether they could recall key questions a judge had asked and the legal directions they had given.

The report reveals that some jurers use the Internet to research the court case they are hearing.

Guidelines

Professor Cheryl Thomas, of University College London, the author of the report, said: "The study recommends that all sworn jurors be issued with written guidelines explaining what improper conduct is, including use of the internet, and how and when to report it.

"It is also clear from the research that jurors want and need better information to perform this crucial role," she added.

Some jurors in high-profile trials also struggle to put the media's coverage out of their mind, the report says.

The Ministry of Justice concludes that the jury system is working well.  Justice Secretary Jack Strraw said: "The study’s findings on the fairness of jury decisions, including for people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, will help to maintain public confidence in juries and the jury system."