Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

In a civil trial, what is determined by the jury while the judge determines the law?

1. Jurisdiction

2. Procedure

3. Facts

4. Evidence

The correct answer is: Facts

In a civil trial, the role of the jury is to resolve factual disputes, which includes determining what actually happened in the case. This involves evaluating evidence presented during the trial, assessing witness credibility, and deciding on the facts relevant to the case based on the standard of proof required, which is typically preponderance of the evidence in civil cases. The judge, on the other hand, has the authority to interpret and apply the law, guiding the jury regarding legal standards and ensuring that the trial proceedings comply with legal procedures. This separation of roles is foundational in the American judicial system, where juries are tasked with fact-finding and judges with legal reasoning and determination. The other choices relate to aspects that do not fall under the jury's purview in a civil trial. Jurisdiction refers to the court's authority to hear a case, which is a matter of law decided by the judge. Procedure involves the rules governing the conduct of the trial, also established by the judge. Evidence, while critically important, pertains to what may be considered by the jury but is ultimately filtered through the legal standards and rules set forth by the judge.