Law in America

The nature of this book does not allow for a full exposition of all aspects of American legal system; rather, it is a heavily illustrated overview and celebration of the major features of American law. The section on the American Jury System is reflective of this approach, briefly sketching the origins of the jury system from the Greeks, William the Conqueror and English jurisprudence and tracing its development in the American legal system. It begins with the sentence: "The jury system is at the heart of American law and our democratic system of government, enshrined in the Constitution." It closes with the phrase "...the right to a trial by jury is a basic and fundamental part of the American justice system and is likely to remain so." While the authors note that at one time American juries routinely excluded women and minorities and also notes that many cases are settled without a trial, it would be a terrible misreading to interpret this section as anything other than a positive celebration of the American jury system.