Bench Trial
A bench trial is a trial in which a judge, rather than a jury, decides the facts and applies the law. Bench trials are available in many civil cases and in some criminal proceedings when the applicable rules allow them and the required parties agree.
A bench trial is a trial in which a judge, rather than a jury, decides the facts and applies the law. Bench trials are available in many civil cases and in some criminal proceedings when the applicable rules allow them and the required parties agree.
Example: The federal antitrust case United States v. Microsoft Corporation was tried before a judge in 1998, who issued findings of fact and conclusions of law.
Common misconception: A bench trial means the case is informal or does not require evidence. The judge still applies the rules of procedure and evidence and must decide the case on the record.
Sources: https://www.justice.gov/atr/us-v-microsoft-corporation; https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/types-cases