Jury Nullification

[Nym90]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jury_nullification

This is basically when a jury ignores the facts or the law in a case, and decides someone's guilt or innocence on other factors, usually the perceived character of the defendant and of the victim.

Another common example is when the jury decides to use its verdict to "make a statement" about a law that is either popular or unpopular, thus putting politics ahead of the law.

Should it be legal? If so, how often should it be used?

[J. J.]

To an extent, we rely on juries to use their judgment.  I support that.  While I tend to support the law, I can see cases where it is applicable. 

[Nym90]

To an extent, we rely on juries to use their judgment.  I support that.  While I tend to support the law, I can see cases where it is applicable. 

I mostly agree. I voted oppose, but in extreme circumstances it is necessary. For the most part, the law should be followed, unless there is a compelling reason not to. But certainly the jury should consider the particular circumstances of the case, as each one is unique. It should be used very sparingly, however.