Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

In the absence of a jury, who serves as both the trier of facts and the determiner of the law in federal court?

1. Magistrate Judge

2. Attorney

3. Defendant

4. Judge

The correct answer is: Judge

In federal court, when a case is heard without a jury, the judge takes on a crucial dual role as both the trier of fact and the determiner of the law. As the trier of fact, the judge evaluates the evidence presented during the trial and determines the facts of the case based on that evidence. This contrasts with jury trials, where jurors perform this function. Additionally, the judge is responsible for interpreting and applying the law to those facts, ensuring that the legal standards are appropriately followed throughout the proceedings. This arrangement is fundamental to the judicial process, especially in bench trials (trials without a jury), where the judge's expertise and impartiality are vital to delivering a fair verdict based on the legal merits of the case. In essence, the judge assumes the responsibilities typically divided between a jury and a judicial officer in a jury trial setting.