Epoch-making judiciary reform is starting as lay judges prepare to sit for trials of suspects indicted on and after May 21 on charges of serious crimes such as murder, arson and kidnapping for ransom. But many people are not enthusiastic about it because the system has been implemented from above. The Supreme Court and the government should have the courage to quickly mend any problems with the system so that it receives public support.
Six lay judges and three professional judges will sit for a district court-level trial. A majority decision, with the support of at least one professional judge, is needed for a guilty ruling. The possibility of having to pass a death sentence is causing great stress to some citizens. To lessen their burden and to increase the ruling's credibility, a rule that makes a unanimous decision mandatory for passing a death sentence should be seriously considered.
The scope of evidence to be used for a trial and the points of contention are narrowed down in a pretrial procedure. To ensure a fair trial, the government should make it obligatory for the prosecution to disclose all evidence, both disadvantageous and advantageous to defendants, during the procedure.