Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Paralegal Practice Exam

What role does the trier of law play in instructing the trier of fact?

1. They provide evidence for the jury to consider

2. They give instructions on the applicable law

3. They render the final verdict

4. They summarize the trial's discussions

The correct answer is: They give instructions on the applicable law

The role of the trier of law, typically a judge, is crucial in instructing the trier of fact, usually a jury or sometimes a judge in a bench trial. The trier of law is responsible for providing the trier of fact with clear directions regarding the relevant laws that apply to the case at hand. This includes outlining the legal standards that the jury must use to evaluate the evidence presented during the trial, as well as clarifying the legal principles that govern the issues being decided. By giving these instructions, the trier of law ensures that the trier of fact understands how to properly apply the law to the evidence they have heard. This guidance is essential for the jury to make informed decisions and arrive at a verdict that is both fair and consistent with the law. The jury relies on these instructions to determine whether the legal thresholds for liability or guilt have been met based on the evidence they have reviewed. In contrast, while providing evidence is a responsibility of the parties in the case (not the trier of law), rendering the final verdict falls on the trier of fact, not the trier of law. Summarizing the trial's discussions is usually not part of the judicial role, as the judge's focus is on legal