Bench Trial
A trial where a judge decides the case instead of a jury.
A bench trial is a trial heard and decided by a judge alone, without a jury. Both sides present evidence and arguments, but the judge is the one who determines the facts and applies the law to reach a verdict.
In Minnesota, a defendant in a criminal case has the right to a jury trial but can choose a bench trial instead. In civil cases, either side can request a jury, but if neither does, the case is tried to the judge.
Why it matters: Bench trials are often faster than jury trials. Some parties prefer a bench trial when the case involves complicated legal issues that a judge may be better equipped to evaluate. Others prefer a jury when they believe community members would be more sympathetic to their situation.
Example: In a contract dispute involving complex financial records, both parties agree to a bench trial because the legal and factual issues may be easier for a judge to sort through than a jury.
Civil and criminal cases where the parties waive their right to a jury