Juror Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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juror
[ˈdʒʊərər ]
Definition
law context
A juror is a member of a jury, which is a group of people sworn to render a verdict in a legal case based on the evidence presented in a court of law. Jurors play a crucial role in the justice system, helping to ensure that trials are fair and impartial. Their primary duty is to listen to the testimony of witnesses, review evidence, and ultimately make a decision regarding the guilt or innocence of a defendant.
Synonyms
assessor, jury member, juryman, panelist.
Examples of usage
- The juror carefully considered the evidence presented in the trial.
- Each juror has a responsibility to remain impartial and not discuss the case outside the courtroom.
- The judge instructed the jurors on how to deliberate fairly.
- After several days of deliberation, the jurors reached a unanimous verdict.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- The modern concept of jurors dates back to medieval England and was formalized by the 12th century.
- In the 1215 Magna Carta, the right to a trial by jury was established, marking a significant change in how justice was administered.
Legal Importance
- Jurors are essential in ensuring fairness in trials by representing the community’s voice.
- In many places, juries can be made up of 12 members, but the number can vary based on the type of trial.
Cultural Influence
- Jurors are often depicted in movies and TV shows, highlighting the drama of courtroom battles and the weight of their decisions.
- The idea of jury duty is ingrained in many cultures, emphasizing civic responsibility and participation in governance.
Social Dynamics
- Being a juror can be a transformative experience, as it often challenges personal biases and perspectives.
- Research shows that diverse juries (in terms of age, race, and gender) lead to more comprehensive deliberations and outcomes.
Origin of 'juror'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'jurare', meaning 'to swear', reflecting the oath jurors take to be honest.
- In Middle English, 'juror' was spelled as 'jureour', showing how language has evolved over time.
The term 'juror' originates from Middle English 'jurour' and Old French 'juror', both of which derive from the Latin word 'jurare', meaning 'to swear'. This etymology reflects the juror's role in the legal system as a sworn individual who makes decisions based on evidence and testimony. Traditionally, a jury was composed of citizens who were summoned to participate in legal proceedings, reflecting a fundamental principle of justice - that a person is entitled to be judged by their peers. Over the centuries, the concept of the jury has evolved, but the importance of a juror's impartiality and duty to uphold the law has remained constant. The modern jury system varies from country to country, with different numbers of jurors and rules governing their conduct, but the essence of a juror's role has its roots deeply embedded in the historical development of legal practices.