Which party is responsible for raising a defense in court?

The defendant is responsible for raising a defense in court. This principle aligns with fundamental legal concepts, particularly the presumption of innocence, where it is the prosecution's duty to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The defendant's role includes presenting any defenses they wish to assert against the charges brought by the prosecution. If a defendant wishes to use any defenses, such as alibi, self-defense, or insanity, they must articulate these in court.

While the prosecution must counter the defenses raised, the initiative to assert any specific defense lies with the defendant. This focus on the defendant's responsibility is crucial for ensuring a fair trial, where both sides have an opportunity to present their cases. Additionally, the judge does not typically raise defenses; their role is to oversee proceedings and ensure the law is correctly applied. The division of responsibilities in a trial emphasizes the adversarial nature of legal proceedings, where each party plays a distinct role in presenting evidence and arguments.