A suggestion judges could replace juries on sexual violence trials.

Chief Government Victims Advisor, Ruth Money, has recommended using expert panels rather than jurors for such cases.

She says the current system is failing - with jurors having misconceptions and lacking understanding of sexual violence.

Sexual Violence Advocate Louise Nicholas says judge-alone trials would also work, because they are completely impartial.

"A judge knows the law - it doesn't mean it will give us a higher rate of conviction, but it will bring in fairness."

LISTEN ABOVE

A suggestion judges could replace juries on sexual violence trials.
Chief Government Victims Advisor, Ruth Money, has recommended using expert panels rather than jurors for such cases.
She says the current system is failing - with jurors having misconceptions and lacking understanding of sexual violence.
Sexual Violence Advocate Louise Nicholas says judge-alone trials would also work, because they are completely impartial.
"A judge knows the law - it doesn't mean it will give us a higher rate of conviction, but it will bring in fairness."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Louise Nicholas: Sexual violence advocate on judges potentially replacing juries on sexual violence trials

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/8f8689bd-5e7a-4c19-83ad-b4b70054d5b2/transcript