When it comes to navigating the legal system, it can be confusing to comprehend all the various terms and concepts. One important concept to understanding is a ‘bench trial,’ and this article will explain what it is and how it can affect your business.
What Is a Bench Trial?
A bench trial, also known as a court trial, is a legal proceeding in which a judge based on the evidence presented determines whether the defendant is innocent or guilty without a jury. The judge will decide the outcome of the trial instead of a jury. Bench trials often take less time to complete as it can be costly to have a jury assembled and try a case – especially longer trials or more complex ones. Bench trials are also quicker to complete than jury trials, which can take several weeks or more.
How Does a Bench Trial Work?
In a bench trial, the judge acts as both the judge and jury. The judge hears and decides on all of the evidence and testimony presented in court, and makes a ruling based on the applicable law. In a jury trial, the purpose of the jury is to determine facts and issue a verdict according to the evidence presented. In a bench trial, the judge is solely responsible for determining guilt or innocence based on the evidence and law.
How Can a Bench Trial Affect Your Business?
If your business is involved in a court case, you should be aware of the possibility of a bench trial. If the judge is deciding the outcome of your case, as opposed to a jury, the standard of proof may be lower. Depending on the judge’s ruling, this can have a significant impact on your business. If your case is heard in a jury trial, the decision will come from a group of individuals, meaning that the outcome of the case could be different than if it were heard by a judge alone.
Having a thorough understanding of what a bench trial is, as well as how it works, will help you make informed decisions on how to proceed with any legal matters your business is involved in.