Which feature is essential to the adversarial system of justice?

The feature that is essential to the adversarial system of justice is the competition between opposing parties to present their cases. This system relies on the idea that justice is best served when two opposing sides advocate for their positions. Each party presents evidence, calls witnesses, and makes legal arguments, all with the aim of persuading an impartial judge or jury of the merits of their case.

This competitive dynamic fosters thorough examination and cross-examination of evidence, allowing for a more balanced consideration of differing viewpoints. The assumption is that the truth will emerge from this contest, and the neutrality of the judge or jury ensures that the proceedings remain fair and equitable.

The other features listed, such as the presence of a single judge or a jury, while often part of many trials, do not universally characterize the adversarial system itself. Additionally, while in-person testimonies are commonly favored in this system, the reliance on written statements is not a defining trait and can vary widely depending on the jurisdiction and specific case circumstances.