Business Degree Certification Practice Test

In a jury trial, who determines questions of law?

1. Jury

2. Judge

3. Prosecutor

4. Defendant

The correct answer is: Judge

In a jury trial, the judge is responsible for determining questions of law. This includes interpreting statutes, rules, and legal precedents to guide the proceedings. The judge ensures that the trial adheres to established legal standards and resolves any legal disputes that may arise during the trial process. The jury, in contrast, is tasked with determining questions of fact, which involves evaluating the evidence presented and deciding whether the facts support the claims made by either party. The roles of the judge and jury are distinct and critical to the functioning of a fair trial, with the judge serving as the arbiter of legal issues while the jury focuses on the factual elements of the case. Prosecutors and defendants do not determine questions of law; their roles pertain to presenting and defending the case, respectively. Thus, the judge's authority in legal matters is what makes the correct answer clear.