Juror confidence in justice: democratic participation or deference to authority? - via UWS

Being on a jury is one of the few activities that increases confidence in justice processes, institutions and staff. There are two apparently contradictory explanations for this - either jurors get a taste for democracy as they participate in collective decision-making, or they develop increased respect for judicial authority. Knowing how these factors work is key to building confidence in justice. Using a case developed with police and prosecutors, this study measures the impact of democratic participation and deference to authority on jurors under experimental conditions in a court environment. The findings will enable courts to improve the jury experience and enhance juror confidence in justice.