[Mr. Bird]

Yes, Trial by Jury is imperfect. But your "panel" of "objective, informed" judges? Quite possibly the most efficient means of corrupting the criminal justice system entirely. Sure, Plato (as either a citizen or a defendant) would prefer the learned judgement of educated arbitrators in theory. The human debris that sits in the jury box is the problem, not the system. Given the choice, however, I'll take the imbecile over the tyrant.

[Cagey]

Given the choice, however, I'll take the imbecile over the tyrant.

As would I, any day. Well said.