What is the role of the judge after a jury delivers a guilty verdict?

After a jury delivers a guilty verdict, the role of the judge includes informing the defendant of their sentence. This process is critical as it upholds the legal framework within which the justice system operates. The judge is responsible for ensuring that the verdict is followed up with appropriate legal consequences, which typically involves a sentencing hearing where the judge considers various factors, including the nature of the crime, the defendant's background, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

While the jury's verdict establishes guilt, it is the judge who has the authority to impose a sentence. This sentence could involve incarceration, probation, fines, community service, or other forms of punishment. The judge's decision is also subject to legal guidelines and statutes relevant to the specific offense.

In contrast, launching an appeal is a step that would be taken by the defendant, not initiated by the judge. Dismissing the case immediately would not occur following a guilty verdict since the jury has already rendered a decision. Assigning a public defender is typically relevant to pre-trial or trial phases rather than post-verdict proceedings. Thus, the judge's role after a guilty verdict is primarily to communicate the sentence to the defendant, ensuring that the judicial process continues in an orderly manner.