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The American Jury System: A Cornerstone of Justice
Introduction
The American jury system plays a pivotal role in the United States' legal system. It is a fundamental aspect of the democratic process, giving ordinary citizens the power to participate in the administration of justice.Types of Juries
There are three primary types of juries:Investigative Grand Juries
Investigative grand juries investigate potential criminal offenses and determine whether there is sufficient evidence to indict an individual.Petit Juries
Petit juries, also known as trial juries, hear evidence and decide the outcome of criminal and civil cases.Civil Juries
Civil juries determine the amount of damages to be awarded in civil lawsuits.Jury Selection
Each court randomly selects qualified citizens from counties within the district for possible jury service. Qualifications include being a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years of age, and mentally competent.Significance of the Jury System
The American jury system is significant in several ways: * Fair and Impartial Justice: Juries represent a cross-section of society, ensuring that decisions are made by a fair and impartial panel. * Citizen Participation: Jury service allows citizens to actively participate in the judicial process, fostering civic responsibility. * Check and Balance: Juries act as a check on the power of the government, ensuring that individuals are not unjustly accused or punished. * Historic Antecedents: The United States has a long and rich history of the jury system, dating back to the colonial era.Conclusion
The American jury system is an integral part of the U.S. legal system, providing a vital check and balance on the power of the government and ensuring fair and impartial justice for all. Jury service is an important civic duty that allows citizens to play a direct role in shaping the outcome of justice. 
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