Analysis of feedback from jury reform consultation will help to shape a policy position for consideration and approval by the Cabinet, the Junior Minister of Justice said this week.

Dennis Lister III told the House of Assembly that the framework would later be shared with the wider community.

He said on Monday that the public consultation period ended on January 31 but engagement continued with groups until last week.

Proposals included reducing the number of jurors from 12 to eight for criminal trials, with potential exceptions for the most serious offences, and increasing the maximum service age to 75.

Another suggestion was to expand eligibility beyond people listed on the Parliamentary Register as well as increasing compensation for jurors.

Civil proceedings could see the introduction of alternate jurors and allowing judges discretion to continue trials after the death or discharge of a juror.

Trials can also be held before a judge where there are reasonable grounds to suspect jury tampering.

Mr Lister said that the next step was for the ministry to “gather and synthesise the comprehensive feedback received from all segments of the community”.

He added: “That analysis will inform the development of a clear policy position for consideration and approval by Cabinet."

• To see the junior minister’s statement in full, see Related Media

Download PDF File

Jury reform ministerial statement