In the context of criminal trials, who opposes the defense?

In a criminal trial, the prosecutor is the party that presents the case against the defendant, or the accused. This role involves gathering evidence, calling witnesses, and working to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime. The prosecutor’s objective is to uphold the law and seek justice on behalf of the state or the government. This is in direct opposition to the defense, whose job is to advocate for the rights of the defendant, challenge the evidence presented, and create reasonable doubt in the minds of the jurors.

The judge typically maintains neutrality, ensuring that the trial is conducted fairly and according to the law, rather than opposing any party. The jury is tasked with evaluating the evidence and reaching a verdict based on the information presented by both the prosecution and the defense, rather than having an opposing role. The public attorney, often referred to as a public defender, serves to represent defendants who cannot afford private legal counsel, and thus also does not act in opposition in the manner that a prosecutor does.