The jury, composed of ordinary citizens sworn to disregard their prejudices and follow the law, plays an essential role in upholding justice. It is a core part of the legal system in countries that use common law, such as Australia, the United States and Britain. The system allows citizens to check the power of the state and ensures that guilty verdicts are based on evidence and not simply a whim.

During trial jurors listen to opening statements and closing arguments from the lawyers as well as hearing and evaluating the evidence presented by the witnesses. After all the evidence has been heard and the judge instructs the jury on the law, jurors retire to discuss the case in a process known as juror deliberations.

Once the discussion is complete the jury will deliver a verdict that may be a guilty or not guilty finding. The process is often intense and thought-provoking, with each juror striving to come to an objective decision based on the evidence presented. Jurors must be careful not to discuss the case with anyone outside of the jury, even with their family members or friends, and should avoid reading newspapers or listening to radio and television broadcasts that might mention the case.

Jurors are expected to interpret the law and court instructions clearly, but this can be challenging for laypeople without legal training. Jurors must also dissect courtroom dialogue and debate, which can include nuances of legal terminology. These complexities can result in misinterpretation of legal issues and a lack of clarity.