What does the principle of "fair trial" ensure for a defendant?

The principle of "fair trial" is fundamentally about ensuring that legal proceedings are conducted in a manner that upholds justice and ethical standards. This includes the defendant's right to a just and public hearing by an impartial tribunal, highlighting the importance of reliability and equity in the judicial process.

When a trial is public, it promotes transparency and accountability. This openness helps to protect against arbitrary justice by allowing the public to observe the proceedings and ensuring that the trial is conducted in an orderly and fair manner. The requirement for the tribunal to be impartial means that the judge and any other decision-makers must not have biases or conflicts of interest regarding the case at hand, guaranteeing a fair assessment of the facts and evidence presented.

The inclusion of a jury of peers is indeed significant in many legal systems as it reflects a commitment to community involvement in justice, but the core essence of a fair trial encompasses a broader range of protections, including the impartiality of the tribunal and the public nature of the proceedings. Overall, C captures the essential attributes of what constitutes a fair trial.