In criminal courts, judges play a crucial role in ensuring that the legal process is fair and impartial, and that justice is served. Here are some of the key roles that judges play in criminal courts:
Presiding over court proceedings: Judges preside over criminal court proceedings, including arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing. They are responsible for ensuring that the proceedings are conducted fairly and efficiently.
Interpreting and applying the law: Judges are responsible for interpreting and applying the law in criminal cases. They must ensure that the defendant's constitutional rights are protected, and that the prosecution meets its burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Admitting and evaluating evidence: Judges are responsible for admitting and evaluating evidence presented by the prosecution and the defence. They must ensure that the evidence is relevant and admissible under the rules of evidence.
Makinglegal decisions: Judges make legal decisions during the course of a criminal case, such as granting or denying motions to suppress evidence, dismissing charges, or ruling on objections.
Instructing the jury: In jury trials, judges are responsible for instructing the jury on the applicable law, and guiding them in their deliberations.
Sentencing: Judges are responsible for imposing sentences on convicted defendants. They must take into account various factors, including the seriousness of the offence, the defendant's criminal history, and the need for rehabilitation.
The role of judges in criminal courts is to ensure that the legal process is fair, that the rights of the defendant are protected, and that justice is served. Judges must be knowledgeable about the law, impartial, and committed to upholding the integrity of the legal system.
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