Some grievances of jurors

Abstract

There is an old theory in the political and social system of these islands that a man when called upon to discharge a public duty must do so at his own charges. But, like all theories, it has undergone considerable modifications in actual fact. Theoretically, an advocate gives his services to his client gratuitously but in fact he receives an honorarium or fee, though not a remuneration for his advocacy. A medical practitioner was originally supposed to act for the good of humanity, and it is only in comparatively recent times that he has been privileged to sue for remuneration for his work. A minister of the Gospel is still supposed to work for the good of his congregation, and the stipend which accompanies or flows from his work is rather the free-will offering of a grateful people than the remuneration of work paid to him in accordance with contract. It so happens, then, in the administration of the law, that the only persons now who are not remunerated for their services are the high sheriffs, justices of the peace, and jurors.