When the juror consists of only one person, who fulfills this role?

In legal contexts where a jury consists of only one person, that individual typically takes on the role of the judge. This occurs in certain situations, such as in bench trials (where only a judge presides over the trial) or when a jury trial has been waived by the defendant or is not required by law. In these scenarios, the judge makes all decisions regarding the admissibility of evidence and ultimately determines the outcome of the case.

The defendant, prosecutor, and bailiff each have distinct roles that do not involve serving as the sole decision-maker in a trial. The defendant is the individual accused of a crime, the prosecutor represents the state in pursuing the case against the defendant, and the bailiff is responsible for maintaining order in the courtroom and assisting the judge. Therefore, the judge as the singular juror embodies the essence of decision-making authority in judicial proceedings when a full jury is not present.