Who decides cases in the Netherlands?

• A. Lay + professional judges combo
• B. Only professional judges
• C. A jury of peers
• D. The judge alone

Answer: (B)

In the Netherlands, cases are decided by professional judges. The system relies on trained, sworn judges to hear the evidence, interpret the law, and render a ruling. There is no jury of peers deciding guilt or innocence in criminal cases, so the decision rests with the judges who apply legal standards and procedure. This focus on professional judicial reasoning helps ensure consistency and adherence to legal rules across cases.