Final answer:
A defendant waiving their right to be tried by an impartial jury means they choose a bench trial over a trial by jury, a right guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment for serious crimes and federal civil cases. Defendants might waive this right typically due to plea bargains. The Constitution ensures defendants are entitled to an impartial jury and legal representation to ensure a fair trial.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a defendant in a criminal trial chooses to be tried by a judge rather than a jury, they waive their Constitutional right to a jury trial. This right is enshrined in the Sixth Amendment which guarantees that in criminal prosecutions, the accused has the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of their peers within the state and district where the crime has been committed. However, it is not uncommon for defendants to waive this right, often due to plea bargains or overwhelming evidence against them.
Defendants charged with serious crimes or involved in federal civil cases are entitled to a trial by jury. Additionally, all accused persons have the right to legal representation, which may include a public defender if they cannot afford one. The essentiality of an impartial jury and effective counsel is aimed at ensuring fairness in the judicial process and preventing miscarriages of justice.