What is the role of a judge in a hung jury situation?

In a hung jury situation, where the jurors are unable to reach a unanimous decision, the primary role of the judge is to declare a mistrial. This occurs because the jury's inability to agree means that a verdict cannot be reached, which is essential for the resolution of the case. Once a mistrial is declared, the judge typically has the authority to order a new trial, meaning that the case may be retried with a new jury. This process allows the legal matter to be resolved in a different trial setting, offering another opportunity for the evidence to be presented and for jurors to deliberate.

The other choices outline actions that do not align with the judge's role in this context. The judge does not step in to make the final decision, as it is the jury's responsibility to reach a verdict. Additionally, assisting the jury in coming to a decision is not permitted; the judge must remain impartial and cannot influence the jury's deliberations. Dismissing irrelevant testimonies is part of the trial process but does not directly address the issue of a hung jury, which centers on the inability of jurors to agree on a verdict.