Anyone want to talk about this with me?
I was on a jury recently, sexual assault case.
I was really surprised by the split of men and women - in the jury waiting area only 20% were women. Only 2 women were then selected on to the jury - me included.
In the court, the judge was male, as were both barristers. Some of the language used to describe the female prosecution witnesses was sexist - a fusspot, a gossip etc. This wasn’t challenged by the judge.
I feel angry about it and want to do something - but I don’t know what!
Some of the limited research I’ve read suggests women are more likely to convict in rape cases than men. But for other sexual assault cases I can’t find anything.
I’ve also tried to find out whether there are more male than female potential jurors - because caring responsibilities can excuse you, and women are more likely to be carers. But haven’t found anything on this.