ENGLISH ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROCEDURAL FRAMEWORK FOR JURY SELECTION AND ITS POTENTIAL RECEPTION IN RUSSIA

Abstract

The relevance of this topic stems from the insufficient efficiency of the national administrative and procedural framework for jury selection. This inefficiency is evidenced by low juror turnout and the systematic inclusion of ineligible candidates in jury lists. As a result, court hearings are frequently adjourned, jury selection is prolonged, reasonable timeframes for criminal proceedings are violated, and, in some cases, verdicts are overturned. Research purpose: to identify universal and effective management solutions within England’s jury selection system and adapt them to the Russian model by drawing upon the English experience. Methods: the comparative legal method was employed to compare the administrative procedures for jury selection in England and Russia, specifically the compilation of potential juror lists, juror vetting, and their notification. This approach enabled the identification of systemic differences in the levels of centralization, digitalization, and automation of routine procedures. Additionally, the formal-legal method was applied to analyze Russian regulatory acts and judicial practice. Results: the research findings indicate that the issues of “frozen” jury candidate lists and unpredictable juror turnout in Russia are caused by the decentralization of list compilation and subsequent notification functions, the lack of mandatory feedback upon receipt of summons, and predominantly manual candidate screening. The study substantiates the need to consolidate the authority for list compilation and notification within a single body, introduce mandatory responses to summons, and automate routine procedures through digital interaction via the “Gosuslugi” (State Services) portal. This would transform passive mailings into a manageable dialogue, simplify procedures, enhance their efficiency, and ensure that criminal cases involving juries are heard within a reasonable timeframe.