Judge vs. Jury
When it comes to legal proceedings, we often hear about trials involving a jury and cases being heard by a single judge or a panel of judges. The terms “jury” and “judge” have become so ingrained in our vocabulary that we might not pay much attention to the distinctions between them. While both roles involve people holding similar positions and carrying out related functions, there are differences in the responsibilities and duties of a judge and a jury.
Judge
A judge is an individual proficient in law who is appointed to preside over cases in a court of law. While the specific roles and responsibilities of a judge can vary between countries, they generally oversee court proceedings and determine the appropriate punishment or financial penalty for the guilty party. There are Supreme Court judges, also known as justices or federal judges, who are qualified to hear cases involving the interpretation of laws or the constitution. However, these judges can also preside over individual trials. The decisions made by a Supreme Court judge are final and binding, as it is the highest court of law.
Judges in lower courts hear cases, summon witnesses, and determine the truth behind a case. They have the authority to decide on a person’s guilt or innocence and administer sentences accordingly. A judge must appear fair and honest at all times, not being swayed by circumstances or individuals, and make decisions according to the provisions of the law, not personal preferences.
Key Takeaways
- A judge is a single person skilled in law who presides over cases in a court of law and determines punishments or financial penalties.
- A jury is a group of people appointed to make a decision in a legal matter, often consisting of individuals from various walks of life who are not necessarily proficient in law.
- While a jury primarily focuses on fact-finding, a judge is responsible for abiding by the law and issuing a verdict based on legal provisions.
Jury
A jury is a group of people appointed to reach a decision in a legal matter that is presented in a court of law. Their decision is known as a verdict or judgment, similar to the ruling made by a single judge. Juries oversee court proceedings to determine guilt or innocence and either administer sentences or acquit the accused. The individuals who make up a jury are called jurors. Jurors are not necessarily proficient in law and often come from various backgrounds and professions. In fact, some argue that jurors are not true professionals but provide impartial judgments.
Juries are presented with evidence and witnesses, which they analyze before reaching a decision. The term “jury” comes from the French word “juror,” which means to swear an oath.
