The adversary style is based on the notion that the truth will come out if everyone has a chance to speak. To ensure that chance, procedures must be strong and clear so that none are prevented from bringing forward evidence and reasoning that is factually and legally relevant to the case. Felony trials in the United States and British courts are examples of this style. The process seeks to arrive at a convincing demonstration of what happened and the role of the accused in those events. Much time is spent compiling information, sifting through it, and cross-checking to be sure all factual bases are covered and all doubts laid to rest with reasonable certitude.
Procedures are less important for they are only tools toward the ultimate goal of truth.
Populist styles are based on notions of common sense, on the idea that people know what is right and wrong and that it is not a legal determination but a moral one. The second form of populist courts occurs in customary systems. Law and courts are based on norms that everyone should and can know and apply. Participation in decision-making is open to all. Judging is done be elders or people acknowledged by the community to have skills and wisdom.