What is the difference between a bench trial and a jury trial?

In the state of Florida, a bench trial and a jury trial are two different methods of determining a criminal case. A bench trial is one in which the judge decides the case without a jury. The judge makes all the decisions on the facts of the case and the law. A jury trial is one in which a jury, made up of members of the community, listens to the evidence and renders a verdict. In a bench trial, the defendant can waive their right to a jury and have the judge decide the case. The judge will then hear evidence from both the defense and the prosecution and make a decision. This type of trial is usually shorter than a jury trial. A jury trial allows the defendant to have a jury that they feel comfortable with hear all the evidence and decide the case. The jury must reach a unanimous decision. The defendant can also choose to have a jury of only 6 members. In a bench trial, the judge is usually the one who decides whether evidence is allowed or not and makes all other decisions. In a jury trial, it is the jury that makes these decisions. The judge is there to provide guidance and instructions to the jury, and the jury is responsible for making the ultimate decision. Overall, the main difference between a bench trial and a jury trial is that in a bench trial, the judge makes all the decisions, and in a jury trial, the jury makes the decisions. Both trials have their advantages and it is up to the defendant to decide which one is best for them.

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What is the difference between a bench trial and a jury trial?

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