Legal Definitions - inquisitorial system

The inquisitorial system is a legal system used in civil law countries where the judge takes an active role in the trial. The judge conducts the trial, asks questions, and decides what evidence is relevant. This system is used in most of continental Europe, Japan, and Central and South America.

For example, in France, the judge is responsible for investigating the case and gathering evidence. The judge can call witnesses and experts to testify and can ask questions to clarify the evidence. The judge also decides the verdict based on the evidence presented.

In contrast, the United States uses an adversary system, where the lawyers for each side present evidence and argue their case, and the judge acts as a neutral referee.