Jury and lay judges
From Common law (jury) and civil law (lay judges)
Procedure and evidenceCriminal law
What it means
Both systems let ordinary citizens take part in trials, but in different ways. A jury of citizens decides the facts alone, apart from the judge. Lay judges sit with professional judges and decide together.
Why it travels badly
Translating 'Schöffe' or 'échevin' as 'juror' is misleading, because a lay judge deliberates with the professional judge and may also decide the sentence.
How other systems say it
Schöffe (lay judge)
A citizen who sits with professional judges in many criminal trials and takes part in both verdict and sentence.
cour d'assises (jurés)
For the most serious crimes, citizens sit together with professional judges and decide jointly.
jury
A group of citizens decides guilt or liability on the facts; the judge handles law and, usually, sentencing.
Tip for translators and students
Use 'lay judge' for the mixed bench and 'juror' only for a true jury.
Related: Prosecutor, Discovery
Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
TheLawToKnow Tools’s glossary is an educational overview of the main differences between legal systems. It is not legal advice.
