✅ In a bench trial, the judge is the trier of fact.

📌 Detailed Explanation:

In the legal system, the trier of fact is the individual or group responsible for evaluating the evidence presented during a trial and making determinations regarding the facts of the case.

• In a jury trial, the jury serves as the trier of fact, while the judge handles legal rulings and procedures.
• In a bench trial (also known as a non-jury trial), there is no jury. The judge performs both roles — interpreting the law and also assessing the facts of the case.

This means the judge listens to the evidence, evaluates witness credibility, determines what happened, and then applies the law to make a verdict.

🧾 Summary:

✔️ In a Bench Trial:

• Trier of Fact: The Judge
• Decision Maker: The judge decides both the facts and the law.