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

A jury trial and a bench trial are two different types of trials that take place in a court of law in Hawaii. A jury trial is a trial in which a jury of 12 people decides the guilt or innocence of a defendant based on the evidence presented in court. The jury typically hears testimony, reviews evidence, and makes decisions on questions of fact. In a bench trial, the judge acts as both the fact-finder and the decision-maker. The judge hears evidence presented by both sides and makes a judgment based on the law. In a jury trial, the jury is responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of the defendant. The jurors must evaluate the evidence, listen to the arguments made by the attorneys, and come to a verdict based on the evidence presented. This process can be lengthy, as jurors must come to a unanimous decision on the case. In a bench trial, the judge is solely responsible for determining the facts of the case and the applicable law. The judge must listen to the attorneys’ arguments, review the evidence presented, and come to a verdict. The judge may also rule on an issue of law, such as whether a defendant’s rights were violated. Overall, the main difference between a jury trial and a bench trial is who is responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of the defendant. In jury trials, this responsibility falls on a jury of 12 people, while in bench trials, the decision is made solely by the judge.

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