In a bench trial, who decides the law?

In a bench trial, the judge plays a pivotal role as the sole decider of both the law and the facts of the case. This format contrasts with a jury trial, where the jury is responsible for determining the facts while the judge provides guidance on the legal standards and applicable laws.

The judge's authority in a bench trial involves interpreting statutes, establishing legal procedures, and ensuring that the trial proceeds according to the law. This centrality of the judge means they make rulings on legal objections, determine the admissibility of evidence, and provide the final legal conclusions necessary for reaching a verdict.

While prosecutors and defense attorneys advocate for their respective positions and present their evidence and arguments, they do not decide the law. The jury’s role is also absent in a bench trial, as they are not present to weigh the evidence or provide a verdict. Instead, the judge takes on the entire responsibility of applying the law to the case at hand, making their role absolutely vital in this scenario.