In this video, Matt Knauss explains the critical differences between jury and bench trials and offers insight into which might be more appropriate for your case.

  1. Jury Trials: In Washington, a jury trial includes 6 members for a misdemeanor and 12 for a felony. The judge's role in such trials is primarily to oversee what evidence is presented, while the jury determines the facts and decides whether a crime was committed. This option is often favored as the government must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt to all jury members.
  2. Bench Trials: In these cases, the judge makes all decisions regarding evidence, the facts of the case, and whether the facts confirm the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. There are two main scenarios where a bench trial might be preferred:
  3. If your case involves charges requiring the prosecutor to prove significant criminal history. A judge is typically better equipped to focus solely on the facts of the case.
  4. If your defense is heavily reliant on a technical, legal argument. A judge is more likely to understand the implications of these arguments concerning constitutional law and the burden of proof.

Matt Knauss emphasizes that every case is unique, and the best choice can differ based on specific circumstances. He urges individuals to secure a knowledgeable attorney familiar with both the court and the prosecuting attorney.