Investigating Lay Inclusion in the Criminal Justice System of England and Wales: using Socio-Legal and Empirical Methodology towards a Methodological Framework

Abstract

This dissertation explores the perceptions of lay influence in criminal justice proceedings in England & Wales, through critically analysing relevant literature and through two case studies, one focusing on law student perceptions through a survey, and the other through observation within a local court. The central conclusion is that lay individuals corroborate awareness of the gravitas of the lay role, which is upheld by both magistrates and juries, for their part of ensuring a fair trial and their continued inclusion within the criminal justice process. And this is reached by drawing the following sub-conclusions, from the socio-legal literature-based research resulting in formulating a methodological framework for furthered future wide-scale examination. As well as highlighting areas to include to understand perceptions of lay roles at a present and local level. To address the relevancy of inclusion, imagery upheld and identified gravitas towards the lay roles within the justice process. Through the media student surveys that strengthened the need for media jurisdictional clarity for assimilation of accurate perceptions, and from the observations, shown through the imagery of the comportment and the noted engagement towards the evidence placed before them.

Date of Award	26 Jun 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Bangor University
Supervisor	Sarah Nason (Supervisor) & Stephen Clear (Supervisor)