The Role of Judges in Civil and Criminal Courts

Question 1

What is the overall role of a judge in the legal system?

Answer 1

To interpret and apply the law, ensure fair trials, make decisions based on facts and evidence, while remianing impartial.

Question 2

What is the role of a judge in the Crown Court

Answer 2

Preside over serious criminal trials
Ensure fair procedure
Direct the jury on law
Sum up evidence
Pass sentence

Question 3

What is the role of District Judge in the Magistrates’ Court?

Answer 3

To hear and decide criminal cases alone, including verdict and sentence.

Question 4

What is the role of a High Court Judge in criminal cases?

Answer 4

To try very serious cases, direct the jury and pass sentence - sitting in the Crown Court when required

Question 5

What is the role of a judge in the County Court?

Answer 5

Hear civil disputes
Apply law and assess evidence
Give judgement and award damages or remedies

Question 6

What is the role of District Judge in the County Court?

Answer 6

To hear small calims and fast-track cases, decied facts and law, and issue a binding judgement.

Question 7

What is the role of a High Court Judge in civil cases?

Answer 7

To hear complex or high-value civil cases in the KIng’s Bench, Chancery, or Family divisions

Question 8

Do civil court judges sit with a jury?

Answer 8

Rarely. Most civil cases are decided by the judge alone, thougb juries can be used in defamation or false imprisonment cases

Question 9

What roles do judges play in appeals?

Answer 9

Hear appeals from lower courts
Review legal errors
May uphold, reverse, or vary decisions

Question 10

What is case management, and how do judges assist?

Answer 10

Judges oversee the efficient running of trials, set timetables, manage evidence, and encourage settlement where possible.