Who are considered 'lay people' in the context of the legal system?

In the context of the legal system, 'lay people' refer to individuals who do not possess formal legal training or qualifications but participate in legal processes, such as serving as jurors or magistrates. Their role is significant in ensuring that the justice system incorporates perspectives from the community, reflecting societal values and norms in legal proceedings. Lay people bring their common sense and experiences to the judicial process, making decisions or contributing to the determination of facts in cases.

The term specifically distinguishes these individuals from legal professionals, such as lawyers and judges, who are trained and qualified in the law. This distinction emphasizes the importance of having non-experts involved in legal decision-making to promote fairness and ensure that the legal system is accessible and representative of the general population.