Digital Commons Network^™

Jury Trials In Japan, Robert M. Bloom

Robert M. Bloom

The Japanese seeking to involve their citizens in the judicial system as well establishing a check on the power of the judiciary have enacted legislation to create jury trials. The type of jury trial enacted by this legislation, which takes effect in 2009, is a mixed-jury system where judges and citizens participate together in the jury deliberation. This article first explores the differences between mixed-juries and the American jury system. It then suggests why the Japanese opted for a mixed-jury system. From that point the article explores psychological theory surrounding collective judgment and how dominant individuals influence the group dynamics. …