Race-Based Jury Nullification

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that race-based jury nullification has existed ever since jury trials began in the United States; however, they have become prevalent in the later years due to the widespread presence of the media in the courtroom. The writer examines the arguments for and against race-based jury nullification as well presenting an opinionated conclusion concerning the subject through the comprehension of contemporary cases. The writer maintains that jurors must know they are responsible for upholding justice and ensuring only the guilty are punished. These individuals must determine guilt based on the facts and not their personal beliefs. The writer concludes that jury nullification is anti-democratic and is against everything for which the criminal justice system stands.

Outline:
Introduction
Arguments for Race Based Nullification
Arguments against Race Based Nullification
Position on Race Based Jury Nullification
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Race based jury nullification is against everything the justice system stands for. The criminal justice system in the United States is a system that is set up to be fair to all people. The criminal justice system is a system set up to punish the guilty and excuse the innocent. Race based jury nullification goes against these ideals.
"Race based jury nullification may set the guilty free even though the evidence presented leads towards a guilty verdict. This nullification may also place an innocent person in prison or result in the loss of an innocent life. Jurors must perform their duties properly and justly. They must take the situation seriously and must not make a decision based on their personal beliefs, but instead base their decision on the facts presented."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Neubauer, D. (2001). Debating crime: Rhetoric and reality. Belmont, CA: Thompson/Wadsworth.
• Walker, S., Spohn, C. & DeLone, M. (2004). The color of justice: Race, ethnicity and crime in America (3rd). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson. Retrieved January 5, 2007, from: https://mycampus.phoenix.edu/secure/resource/resource.asp

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