Presiding Judge Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Presiding Judge, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Presiding Judge?

A public officer who either has been elected or chosen to manage the session in the court and the jury.

History and Meaning of Presiding Judge

A presiding judge is a critical court officer who manages proceedings in the court of law. A presiding judge is either elected or chosen and presides over trials, hearings, and other legal proceedings in a court of law. The presiding judge must facilitate all court proceedings, including the communication between the court, jury, attorneys, litigants, and witnesses. The presiding judge also upholds the law and ensures that the law is followed by everyone in the courtroom.

Examples of Presiding Judge

  1. In a criminal trial, the presiding judge is responsible for approving plea deals between the defense and the prosecution or accepting plea bargains.
  2. If a dispute arises during a trial, the presiding judge can rule on admissibility issues, compel testimony, or disqualify witnesses.
  3. The presiding judge is responsible for ensuring the jury is aware of the law regarding the case and the evidence presented.

Legal Terms Similar to Presiding Judge

  1. Magistrate Judge - a judicial official selected by the district court judges and officially appointed by the court to assist in the management of some of the court's cases.
  2. Circuit Judge - A judge who serves on an appeal court.
  3. Chief Justice - the judge who presides over a supreme court in many countries or states.