Victims, witnesses, defendants, barristers, judges, court staff, and journalists covering distressing cases can access dedicated support or advocacy if required. Jurors are in the same room, but currently have no access to specialist support.
In this article for The Justice Gap, Dr Hannah Fawcett and Dr Matt Brooks argue that jurors remain one of the most overlooked groups within the criminal justice system despite being exposed to graphic evidence, distressing testimony, and the burden of making life-changing decisions. Drawing on emerging research and policy developments, the article highlights the psychological impact that jury service can have on some individuals and questions whether current support provisions are sufficient.
The article makes the case for greater recognition of juror wellbeing and outlines practical reforms to better prepare, support, and care for jurors before, during, and after their service. It explores why juror wellbeing matters not only for those serving on juries, but also for the effective functioning and fairness of the justice system itself.
