Was macht eine Schöffin/ein Schöffe in Deutschland? Sie/Er …
Correct answer: A. decide on guilt and sentence together with professional judges.
In German, as in the test
- entscheidet mit Richterinnen/Richtern über Schuld und Strafe. (richtige Antwort)
- gibt Bürgerinnen/Bürgern rechtlichen Rat.
- stellt Urkunden aus.
- verteidigt die Angeklagte/den Angeklagten.
English translation
What does a lay judge (Schöffin/Schöffe) do in Germany? They …
- decide on guilt and sentence together with professional judges. (Correct answer)
- give citizens legal advice.
- issue official documents.
- defend the accused.
Why this is correct
Lay judges (Schöffinnen/Schöffen) are ordinary citizens who serve as honorary judges in criminal courts. They decide together with the professional judges and have an equal vote.