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Abstract

This dissertation looks at whether juries are fit for purpose within the United Kingdom, focusing on male perpetrated rapes against women. Using secondary research it looks at the number of unreported rapes, reported rapes, charging and convictions following trials to consider any links with jury outcomes. It does this by considering how jurors reach decisions using mock jury research, Pennington and Hastie’s story model theory and Carlson and Russo’s work on pre-decisional distortion. It was found rape myths, stereotypes and bias exist in society, as well as juries, and reasonable are contributing factors with low conviction rates. This dissertation looked at what other options are available and found that whilst there are alternatives there is currently a lack of empirical research to support moving away from juries. The key findings show juries are supported but are not without issues and require additional help and support to eradicate prejudices from the decision-making process. However, this requires further research before any potential changes can be implemented.

Course: Crime and Criminology - BSc (Hons) - C2113P

Date Deposited: 2020-11-23

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13612.html