What is the role of a petit jury?

The role of a petit jury is to decide on facts in civil or criminal cases. This kind of jury, typically consisting of 6 to 12 jurors, is responsible for examining the evidence presented during a trial and making determinations about the facts of the case. Their primary function is to listen to witness testimonies, evaluate physical evidence, and ultimately reach a verdict based on the presented information.

In civil cases, the petit jury decides whether the defendant is liable and, if so, what damages should be awarded. In criminal cases, they determine whether the prosecution has established the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This makes the task of a petit jury pivotal in ensuring justice is served, as their conclusions greatly influence the final outcome of legal proceedings.

Other options relate to different functions within the judicial process that do not align with the responsibilities of a petit jury. For example, investigating crime scenes pertains to law enforcement roles, determining the validity of charges is a function typically handled during pre-trial procedures, and assisting the judge during trials is generally the role of the court's staff or a jury consultant rather than the jury itself.