Judges instruct juries on applicable laws and direct them to consider facts based on evidence. A judge that determines guilt in criminal cases may impose a penalty or sentence on the guilty party, or in civil cases, award compensation to the party that wins the lawsuit. One of our most important rights —the right to a fair trial rests on the shoulders of judges and hearing officers. They conduct pretrial hearings, resolve administrative disputes, facilitate negotiations between opposing parties, and issue legal decisions.
Judges hear cases that range from traffic offenses to the rights of large corporations. Before a trial, they often review documents, research legal issues, and listen to arguments to determine if a trial is warranted. Depending on the case, judges either instruct jurors on the law and guide them in considering the evidence, or decide the case directly, determining whether a sentence or penalty is justified. Critically, they ensure fair proceedings so that the legal rights of all involved parties are protected.
