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Simple English definitions for legal terms
judge trial
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A quick definition of judge trial:
A judge trial is when a judge decides the outcome of a case instead of a jury. It's also called a bench trial. Sometimes a trial is split into two parts, like for guilt and punishment, and that's called a bifurcated trial. A fair trial is important, and everyone should be able to watch it unless there's a good reason not to. Sometimes, parties can have a nonbinding summary jury trial to help them settle a case.A more thorough explanation:
A judge trial, also known as a bench trial, is a type of trial where a judge decides both the questions of fact and questions of law. This means that the judge determines what happened in the case and applies the law to those facts to make a decision.
For example, in a criminal case, a judge trial would involve the judge hearing the evidence presented by the prosecution and defense and then deciding whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. In a civil case, the judge would decide who is responsible for the harm caused and what damages should be awarded.
Unlike a jury trial, there is no jury present in a judge trial. This type of trial is often used when the parties involved agree to waive their right to a jury trial or when a jury trial is not available.
Overall, a judge trial is a formal judicial examination of evidence and determination of legal claims in an adversary proceeding, where the judge acts as both the fact-finder and decision-maker.