Fact Finder (Finder Of Fact) Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Fact Finder (Finder Of Fact), written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Fact Finder (Finder Of Fact)?

n. The judge or jury during a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution that decides if the facts presented have been proven. In rare instances, the judge will appoint a special master to investigate certain fact’s existence.

History and Meaning of Fact Finder (Finder Of Fact)

A fact finder is the term used in legal proceedings to describe the person or group of people responsible for deciding whether the evidence presented is factual. This can either be a judge or a jury, depending on the type of case. The fact finder listens to arguments from both sides, then reviews and evaluates the evidence presented during a trial or hearing.

In a criminal case, the fact finder may be a jury, which consists of 12 impartial citizens chosen from the community. The jury listens to the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense, and then makes a determination of guilt or innocence based on the facts presented. In a civil case, the fact finder may be the judge, who reviews the evidence and makes a ruling based on what has been presented.

Examples of Fact Finder (Finder Of Fact)

  1. In a rape case, the jury is the fact finder that listens to the testimonies of the victim and the defendant to decide who is telling the truth.
  2. In a breach of contract case, the judge is the fact finder who reviews the evidence presented to determine whether one party failed to fulfill their contractual obligations.
  3. In a medical malpractice case, a special master may be appointed as the fact finder to investigate certain facts before a decision is made.

Legal Terms Similar to Fact Finder (Finder Of Fact)

  1. Jury - A group of 12 citizens selected to listen to evidence and determine the outcome of a criminal case.
  2. Judge - A legal official who presides over a court of law and is responsible for making decisions based on the law and evidence presented.
  3. Special master - A person appointed by a judge to investigate a specific issue or fact in a case.