What is the role of the judge in a trial?

The role of the judge in a trial encompasses overseeing the legal proceedings, ensuring that the trial is conducted fairly and according to the law. This includes making rulings on the admissibility of evidence, providing instructions to the jury, and maintaining order in the courtroom. The judge acts as an impartial arbiter, facilitating the process for both the prosecution and defense while also protecting the rights of the parties involved.

While the judge does evaluate the credibility of the evidence presented, their primary responsibility is to manage the trial process as a whole, which is why overseeing the legal proceedings is considered the most accurate description of their role. In addition, the judge does not act as a prosecutor or provide legal counsel to the jury; rather, they guide the jury in understanding the law relevant to the case at hand while remaining neutral.