In a trial, which group decides on the evidence presented?

In a trial, the jury is the group responsible for deciding on the evidence presented. Their role is to listen to the testimonies, examine the evidence, and ultimately reach a verdict based on the facts of the case and the law as instructed by the judge. The jury serves as an impartial body that represents the community's standards and values in determining whether the prosecution has met its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal cases.

While the judge oversees the trial, ensuring that legal protocols are followed and that the proceedings remain fair, they do not make decisions about the evidence in terms of guilt or innocence when a jury is present. The prosecution team presents its case to the jury, but they do not decide on the evidence themselves—their role is to advocate for a conviction. Similarly, the defense attorney's role is to represent the defendant's interests and challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, but they do not adjudicate the evidence either. Thus, the jury is the essential decision-making body that evaluates the evidence to reach a verdict.