Judge (legal officeholder)

A judge is a legal professional appointed or elected to preside over court proceedings. Their role is to interpret and apply the law impartially, ensuring justice is served in civil, criminal, or administrative cases. Judges make rulings on motion and trial procedures, evaluate evidence, and, in some cases, determine the outcome or sentence. They uphold legal standards, protect rights, and maintain order within the courtroom. Their decisions are grounded in legal principles, statutes, and case law, and they have a duty to act fairly and neutrally throughout the judicial process.