What characterizes a trial by jury?

A trial by jury is characterized as a legal proceeding where a jury makes decisions regarding the facts of the case. This process involves a group of peers—typically composed of citizens—who listen to the evidence presented during the trial and ultimately determine the verdict, which can involve acquittal or conviction in criminal cases, as well as liability in civil cases. The role of the jury is to ensure that the accused receives a fair trial by allowing a group of citizens to weigh the evidence and reach a collective conclusion, reflecting community standards and values.

In contrast to this, other aspects of the process do not align with what characterizes a trial by jury. For instance, in Option A, decisions made solely by a judge describe a bench trial, not a jury trial. Option B, stating that decisions are influenced by public opinion, is not a principle of the jury system, as jurors are instructed to base their verdict strictly on the evidence presented in court rather than external influences. Lastly, Option D, which mentions conducting a trial without legal representation, does not represent the norm for jury trials, as legal counsel is generally present to uphold the rights of the parties involved and ensure due process.