ORCID
0009-0002-2571-0407
Keywords
plain language, jury instructions, comprehension, legal language, fluency, juror comprehension
Abstract
Extant literature indicates there are significant problems related to how jurors comprehend instructions. Cognitive fluency literature explains that when information is presented in plain language, it enhances cognitive fluency by reducing the cognitive load on the reader or listener. Therefore, utilizing a quantitative experiment, this study sought to explore the use of plain language and its role when presenting instructions to jurors. A total of 212 participants were randomly assigned to one of the two jury instruction conditions and one of the six case facts, where they were asked to read a hypothetical self-defense case scenario followed by the corresponding jury instructions. The study found that participants with plain language instructions reported higher comprehension, comprehension confidence, and cognitive fluency levels than those with standard instructions. Additionally, cognitive fluency was found to mediate the relationship between instruction type and comprehension confidence. The results suggest that the use of plain language in jury instructions can improve juror comprehension, confidence, and ease of processing, ultimately leading to a more positive juror experience. These findings have important implications for the legal system and highlight the need for continued research on the use of plain language in legal documents.
Completion Date
2024
Semester
Fall
Committee Chair
Weger, Harry
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
College
College of Sciences
Department
Nicholson School of Communication and Media
Degree Program
Strategic Communication
Format
Identifier
DP0029049
Language
English
Release Date
12-15-2024
Access Status
Dissertation
Campus Location
UCF Downtown
STARS Citation
Vega, Jamie L., ""What Do You Mean By...?" The Role of Plain Language in Jury Instructions" (2024). Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024. 81.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/etd2024/81
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