What is the purpose of a trial jury in Georgia?

The purpose of a trial jury in Georgia is to determine the outcome of civil or criminal cases. A trial jury, often called a "petit jury," is composed of a group of citizens who are called to listen to the evidence presented during a trial and then deliberate to reach a verdict based on that evidence. In criminal cases, the jury decides whether the accused is guilty or not guilty, while in civil cases, the jury determines liability and may also calculate damages.

This function is fundamental to the judicial process, as it serves to ensure that a defendant's right to a fair trial is upheld through the involvement of impartial peers. The jury's decision must be based solely on the facts presented and the legal standards set forth by the judge, reflecting the collective judgment of the community on the case at hand. This role contrasts significantly with other choices, which involve functions that are not typically assigned to a trial jury. For example, researching legal precedents is the responsibility of lawyers and judges, while advising judges on sentencing is a duty of the judge after a verdict is reached, and providing a legal defense is the role of the defense attorney.