A vague concept: New survey from City Law School and LSE analyses problems with the current directions on criminal standard of proof

A new survey from Dr Sally Stares (LSE Methodology), Paul McKeown, and Adrian Keane (City Law School) analyses the problems with the current directions on the criminal standard of proof.

The survey highlights a serious risk that jurors understand 'sure' as 'absolutely certain', and suggests that juries need more help on the types of doubt that require acquittal.

It also found that comparing with important life decisions is confusing and may dilute the standard, and that juries may need direction that the standard does not vary according to the seriousness of the offence.

Read more in the New Law Journal, free to non-subscribers but with a small registration form to prevent bots.