Change Juries used in rape trials to a panel of assessors

Rejected 21 signatures

What the petition asks

(42%) of the time defendants in rape trials walk away free as the jury are told to vote ‘not guilty’ if they have even 1% of doubt. Multiple reports find false beliefs regarding rape affected jurors decisions in court. This includes myths that blame the victim and beliefs of what ‘real rape’ is.

Myths about rape are so widely believed by the public that their ability to deliver justice is compromised. Change rape trials from a panel of juries to a panel of assessors. This would mean informed individuals would look at evidence and make more informed decisions regarding rape convictions. Panellists could help inform the judge in the case about relevant issues, and remind them of some of the facts as well as the myths; for example, people of all ages, from babies to elderly women are raped (sexual attraction has nothing to do with it). In the UK, we are scraping 6% in getting a rape conviction out of rapes reported, nevermind convincing 12 members of the public the defendant is 100% guilty.

Why it was rejected

It was not clear what the petition asked the UK Government or Parliament to do.

Petitions need to call on the Government or Parliament to take a specific action.

We're not sure exactly what you'd like the Government or Parliament to do. We're not sure if you want the panels to be making a decision on cases or acting as advisors.

You could start a new petition explaining clearly what you would like the Government or Parliament to do. You'll need to include a surname if you'd like to start a new petition.

Timeline

15 Jan 2021	Petition opened for signatures
18 Feb 2021	Rejected by the Petitions Committee

Key facts

Signatures 21

Status Rejected

Rejected 18 Feb 2021

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