Is Mexico Ready for a Jury Trial?: Comparative Analysis of Lay Justice Systems in Mexico, the United States, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Ireland

Abstract

This article examines the possible re-establishment of the jury system in Mexico and explores its broader application in criminal trials. Viable options might include: the use of a “verdict questionnaire” in the form of a list of propositions answered by the jury; vigorous strategies to ensure the security and safety of judges and jurors from defendants involved in drug cartels; introduction of lay participation at a state level; and implementation of a mixed tribunal that allows joint deliberations by professional and lay judges, in addition to all-citizen juries.