A péi shěn yuán (juror) is a citizen selected to serve on a jury in a court trial. The word breaks down literally as péi (to accompany or be present with), shěn (to examine, judge, or try a case), and yuán (member or official). Together, the characters convey the idea of someone who accompanies the judicial process by actively participating in evaluating evidence and reaching a verdict alongside judges or independently, depending on the legal system.

In China, jurors are appointed under the People’s Juror System and participate in first-instance criminal, civil, and administrative cases at local courts. They have equal rights with professional judges when deliberating facts, though judges retain authority over questions of law. The role emphasizes civic participation in justice—not merely observing, but contributing meaningfully to fair outcomes through collective judgment and community perspective.