What is the composition of a jury in a criminal trial?

In a criminal trial, a jury typically consists of 12 members. This composition is critical as it reflects the importance of having a diverse range of perspectives and ensures a fair deliberation process. Juror number and diversity help in reaching a consensus based on the evidence presented during the trial, which is an essential feature of the justice system.

The requirement for a 12-member jury also aligns with longstanding legal traditions and practices designed to uphold the principle of a fair trial by peers. This number is significant as it balances the need for thorough discussion and deliberation among jurors while still allowing for a majority vote to reach a verdict.

In contrast, smaller jury sizes (such as 6 or 7 members) are often used in some civil trials or specific jurisdictions for efficiency or less serious cases, but in standard criminal trials, the 12-member jury is the accepted norm in most areas, including Ontario.