Legal News
Jurors who research cases online could face jail (7 February 2014)
Date: 07/02/2014
Jurors who research cases they are involved in online could face up to two years in jail, according to new guidelines revealed by the Justice Secretary Chris Grayling this week.
Jurors will also be banned from posting case details on Facebook and other social media sites while they are hearing evidence in court cases.
Currently, jurors are not legally allowed to discuss cases with others – or attempt to find out more information about defendants, witnesses or victims.
This is to prevent jurors from pre-judging the defendant or evidence presented in court.
In sensitive high-profile cases – such as the Lee Rigby trial – the media may be restricted or have conditions placed on reporting the case.
The increasing availability of personal information online – as well as press coverage online and citizen journalism – has led to the Justice Secretary updating guidelines for jurors.
The new measures to prevent jurors carrying out their own research form part of the Criminal Justice and Courts Bill.
Commenting on the increasing popularity of technology and widespread distribution of information, Mr Grayling said:
“We have considered the impact this has on our laws and will make the necessary changes to reflect that impact.”
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