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Controversial Plan: Defendants May Lose Jury Trial Rights

4/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Defendants facing violent crime and drug charges in England and Wales could soon forfeit their automatic right to a jury trial. This controversial move aims to tackle the growing court backlog. Courts minister Sarah Sackman KC backs the proposal, with a review led by Sir Brian Leveson on the horizon, stirring significant debate about justice and fairness.

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Story summary

Defendants facing violent crime and drug charges in England and Wales could soon forfeit their automatic right to a jury trial. This controversial move aims to tackle the growing court backlog. Courts minister Sarah Sackman KC backs the proposal, with a review led by Sir Brian Leveson on the horizon, stirring significant debate about justice and fairness.