Who typically presides over decision-making in a small claims court?

In a small claims court, disputes are resolved in a more streamlined and informal manner than in higher courts, with the primary aim of making the legal process accessible to the public. The individual who typically presides over these proceedings is a magistrate or judge. This person is responsible for overseeing the court proceedings, ensuring that the law is followed, and making decisions based on the evidence presented.

In small claims court, there is usually no jury involved, as the process is designed to facilitate quick resolutions without the complexities of a jury trial. Instead, the magistrate or judge specifically evaluates the cases, listens to both parties, and makes binding decisions. This function is crucial as it allows for legal disputes to be settled efficiently and effectively, ensuring that the parties receive a fair hearing under the oversight of an impartial legal authority.

The roles of arbitrators and the parties themselves differ significantly from those in small claims court; arbitrators typically handle issues in arbitration settings outside of court, while the parties involved advocate for their own positions rather than presiding over the case. Therefore, the presence of a magistrate or judge is essential to maintaining the structured legal process desired in small claims disputes.