Judges must provide reasons for their decisions. Sometimes judges will explain their reasons in court at the same time they give their decision on the case. Other times judges will give their decision in court at the end of the case but provide the reasons for their decision in a written decision at a later date. Judges may also provide oral reasons in court and a written decision at a later time. In cases where there is a jury, the judge ensures that the rules are followed and that only proper evidence is heard. The jury decides which facts to believe and makes the decision in the case based on instructions from the judge.
Judges are elected or appointed officials who act as impartial decision-makers in the pursuit of justice. They apply the law to court cases by overseeing legal proceedings in courts, ruling on questions of law, and facilitating negotiations between opposing parties. When judges are not in the courtroom, they can be found in their chambers doing legal research, looking over cases, and supervising other court staff. Judges commonly preside over trials or hearings of cases regarding nearly every aspect of society, from individual traffic offences to issues concerning the rights of large corporations. They listen to arguments and determine whether the evidence presented deserves a trial.
