How is an adversarial legal system characterized?

An adversarial legal system is characterized as a struggle between two opposing sides, where each party presents its own case before an impartial judge or jury. This approach emphasizes the roles of the parties involved, often creating a dynamic where each side advocates vigorously for its position, aiming to persuade the decision-maker of its perspective.

In this context, the adversarial nature fosters a competitive environment that is designed to reveal the truth through the testing of evidence and arguments against one another. The judge's role is to maintain order and ensure that the legal framework is followed, rather than to actively seek out the truth or mediate between the parties. This contrasts with more collaborative or mediative systems, which focus on finding common ground and resolving disputes through negotiation rather than competition.