The recent Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommended juryless trials for the BVI as a way to address the issues the territory has with sourcing jurors. But some sections of the public as well as elected leaders were hesitant to accept the recommendation as they believe leaving decisions solely to judges could negatively impact persons who find themselves before the courts.

While debating the bill in the House of Assembly (HOA) on October 18, Premier Wheatley said he wanted to make it clear to residents that having juryless trials was a recommendation and not an order given by the COI.

He said the COI also recommended the expansion of the pool from which jurors are drawn and this was the recommendation that elected leaders opted to take.

“I just want to make sure the public understands that this bill does not deal with juryless trials. I’m just seeking to provide some clarity mainly for the public. The subject of juryless trials came up in the COI. There were two recommendations: that consideration be given to expanding the jury pool and consideration be given to juryless trials. But that (juryless trials) is not being considered for this bill,” Premier Wheatley clarified.

There are several factors which make it difficult for the courts to secure jurors in the BVI. One of the main factors is that the existing Jury Act restricts duty to persons who are Belongers.

Those who have lived in the territory for at least 10 years, persons between the ages of 21 and 60, as well as those who have no previous convictions and are not sitting members of the HOA, are eligible to be jurors.

This makes juryless trials an attractive option for the BVI but elected leaders say they are not considering that option right now.