Verdict that causes headaches for judges - but relief for those freed ANALYSIS

From: The Scotsman | Date: May 27, 2003| Author: | Copyright information

TENSION mounts as the verdict is awaited. Outside the jury room, debate rages about what is being discussed. Are they not convinced by the main prosecution witness? Then, a whisper goes round that the jury is coming back. But it's not a verdict ... they just want to ask a question. The judge hopes it's not THAT question. But quite often, it is. The jury is seeking guidance on the law: "Can you tell us the difference between not guilty and not proven?"

It's a waste of time. The judge will invariably repeat what has already been said in the standard directions given to all juries. Both not ...

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