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South Africa has an independent judiciary, subject only to the Constitution and the law. Find out more about how the wheels of justice turn in South Africa.

Instead of relying on a jury of peers, the South African justice system makes provision for assessors. They are highly skilled, legally trained people selected by the judge, if he or she feels the need. In the Oscar Pistorius trial, there are two assessors, who may overrule the judge on a verdict when it comes to the facts of the case.

The murder trial of Oscar Pistorius is setting a precedent when it comes to press coverage of a criminal trial: never before has there been such interest in a court matter in South Africa. That reporters are allowed to live tweet from court, that cameras are allowed to film in the court building are big steps towards a more transparent, freer media.