What is the main characteristic of a "trial by jury"?

A trial by jury is fundamentally defined by the participation of a group of peers who assess the evidence presented during a legal case. This collective group, known as the jury, is tasked with evaluating the facts, interpreting the law as instructed by the judge, and ultimately rendering a verdict based on their findings. The idea behind having a jury composed of peers is to ensure fairness and provide a community perspective in the judicial process, balancing the potential biases of an individual judge.

The correct answer highlights this crucial aspect, emphasizing the jury's role in forming a collective decision rather than leaving the outcome solely in the hands of a single judge. The participation of a jury reflects a foundational principle of democracy and justice, ensuring that the adjudication of cases is not only based on legal doctrines but also informed by the community’s values and standards.

The other options mischaracterize the nature of a trial by jury. For instance, the determination of a verdict by only a judge pertains to a bench trial, which is a different legal process. Additionally, legal representation is typically allowed and often essential in trials to ensure a fair presentation of the case, thus contradicting the idea that it occurs without legal representation. Lastly, while trials by jury can occur in both criminal and civil cases,