JUDGE JURY Meaning and
Definition
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A judge jury refers to a legal term used to describe a judicial mechanism wherein a judge functions simultaneously as judge and jury in a court case, rendering decisions on both the matters of law and the matters of fact. In this unique arrangement, the judge assumes the role of a jury by evaluating the evidence presented, weighing witness credibility, and determining the guilt or innocence of the accused, while also performing the traditional role of a judge, which includes instructing the jury, overseeing the legal proceedings, and applying the law to the facts of the case.
The concept of judge juries can occur under various circumstances, most commonly arising in cases where there is a waiver of the right to a jury trial by the defendant, or in instances where the right to a jury trial is not protected by law. The judge, as the sole decision-maker, possesses the authority to decide both questions of fact and issues of law, thus eliminating the need for a separate jury panel.
In contrast to regular jury trials, judge juries are often associated with civil cases, particularly in jurisdictions where such a practice is permitted. Proponents of judge juries argue that it expedites the legal process by avoiding the potential biases or inefficiencies of assembling a jury panel, while also ensuring a more reliable and consistent application of the law. Critics, on the other hand, voice concerns about excessive judicial powers, lack of community participation, and the potential for biased decision-making when a single individual assumes both roles.
Common Misspellings for JUDGE JURY
- hudge jury
- nudge jury
- mudge jury
- kudge jury
- iudge jury
- uudge jury
- jydge jury
- jhdge jury
- jjdge jury
- jidge jury
- j8dge jury
- j7dge jury
- jusge jury
- juxge jury
- jucge jury
- jufge jury
- jurge jury
- juege jury
- judfe jury
- judve jury
Etymology of JUDGE JURY
The words "judge" and "jury" have different origins.
The word "judge" comes from the Middle English term "jug(e)" which is derived from the Old English word "dēem" meaning "to decide". It can be traced back to the Latin word "iudex", which meant "one who judges or decides". The Latin term itself is composed of "ius" meaning "law" and "dīcere" meaning "to say" or "to pronounce". Therefore, the word "judge" essentially refers to a person who makes legal decisions based on the law.
On the other hand, the word "jury" has a distinct etymology. It comes from the Latin word "iūrāre" meaning "to swear". In ancient Rome, a "iūrātus" was a sworn witness.
