B2 – Upper Intermediate
Did you know there’s more to the legal system than just guilty or non-guilty verdicts? Have you ever heard of ‘jury nullification’? In the thought-provoking video ‘The Law You Won’t Be Told,’ you’ll gain insights into this intriguing concept.
Take a moment to watch the video and contemplate whether some of the cases you’ve come across might fall into this category. Join us on this exploration of an often-overlooked aspect of the law.
Vocabulary Questions:
Explain the meaning of the highlighted words below and make some sentences.
- Be warned: Simply watching the video may prevent you from ever serving on a jury.
- When the defendant is 100% beyond-a-reasonable-doubt guilty, but the jurors also think he shouldn’t be punished, then the jury can nullify the law and let him go.
- Jury nullification usually refers to the non-guilty version but juries can convict without evidence just as easily as they can acquit in spite of it.
Discussion Questions:
- What thoughts do you have about jury nullification?
- What are some potential benefits and drawbacks of jury nullification within the legal system? Discuss both sides of the argument.
- In your understanding, how can discussing jury nullification in the wrong circumstances can lead to arrest?
- Have you ever encountered a case where you believe jury nullification may have been at play? If so, what were your thoughts on the outcome?
- Is the legal system fair? Why or why not?