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

The difference between a bench trial and a jury trial in Idaho is the difference in who hears the case. In a bench trial, the judge hears the case alone and makes the final decision. In a jury trial, the judge is still involved but a group of jurors is present and they decide the outcome of the case. In a bench trial, the judge looks at both the prosecution’s and defense’s arguments and makes the final decision. The judge will consider evidence, including testimony from witnesses, as well as arguments from both sides. The judge will also consider legal precedent and use it to support their decision. It is important to note that a bench trial cannot be appealed by either side. In a jury trial, the judge will still manage the proceedings and have the ability to rule on issues such as admissibility of evidence and legal arguments. However, the jury will be the people responsible for deciding the outcome of the case. The jury will listen to evidence presented by both sides and then use their own personal judgement and opinions to decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Ultimately, the difference between a bench trial and a jury trial in Idaho is who makes the final decision. In a bench trial, the judge alone will make a decision based on legal precedent, evidence, and arguments from both sides. Whereas in a jury trial, a jury of the defendant’s peers will decide the outcome based on their own personal judgement.

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