Radiolab Null and Void
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Dec 16, 2022 Soren Wheeler, Editor for Radiolab, dives into the controversial concept of jury nullification, a hidden power in the U.S. legal system. He discusses whether jurors should have the right to ignore laws they feel are unjust. The conversation navigates the historic significance of this practice, highlighting its role in pivotal legal cases and social justice movements. From the emotional toll on jurors to the racial divides in perceptions of justice, Wheeler and reporter Tracie Hunte explore the delicate balance between law and personal morality.
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Laura Criho's Jury Experience
- Laura Criho was summoned for jury duty in 1996 and served on a drug possession case.
- She refused to convict, leading to a mistrial and a contempt of court charge, sparking controversy around jury nullification.
Jury Nullification: Power and Controversy
- Jury nullification is a power of the jury to disregard the law or facts in a verdict.
- This power can be seen as a cornerstone of democracy or a path to anarchy, leading to intense debate.
William Penn Trial
- William Penn's 1670 trial for unlawful assembly led to a jury acquitting him despite clear evidence.
- This case, along with the ensuing legal battle, established the principle of not punishing jurors for verdicts.
