What do the trial judges do?

Posted Thu, 07/20/2017 - 15:40 / Updated Fri, 07/21/2017 - 10:35

The trial judges hear the evidence presented by the prosecution and defence, and by civil parties; they then consider both sides of the case, discuss among themselves and decide whether the accused person is guilty or not guilty. If the accused is found guilty, the judges also decide on the sentence. The trial judges must issue a written judgment explaining the reasons for their decision. If any judges disagree with the decision, they must also explain their reasons for voting differently from the majority. All the judgments will be made public.