Question

Discuss Fair Trial. Write about components necessary to ensure a fair trial for 5 marks

Answer 1

A fair trial is a trial that is not prejudiced or biased against the accused. Thus, in a fair trial, the accused is given full chance to establish his or her innocence. There is no presumption of the accused's guilt and the accused is considered innocent till proven guilty. The components of a fair trial are

1. Trial in a public hearing.
2. The judge should be competent, independent and impartial.
3. The accused should have a defence lawyer to provide counsel on rights.
4. The trial should be held in the presence of the accused,
5. The trial should be held in a reasonable time frame.