Each defendant has the right to challenge a maximum of 12 potential jurors without giving a reason. As in England and Wales, a jury is first invited to reach a unanimous view. If a unanimous decision is not possible, a verdict can be accepted in cases involving a maximum of 2 dissenting opinions. Like England and Wales, but unlike Scotland, the age range for jurors is 18-70. These courts, which are known as Diplock courts after the author of a report recommending the need for them in the special circumstances of Northern Ireland, are controversial.
Some safeguards exist for defendants in such courts.
The judge must provide written reasons for conviction and there is the automatic right of appeal against conviction and sentence on points of law and fact. Official who conducts prosecution. The bulk of summary offenses are prosecuted by the police. The Director of Public Prosecutions for Northern Ireland prosecutes all offenses tried on indictment and may choose to prosecute other cases, as well. Alternatives to trial.