Table of Contents
Federal court cases are resolved through a structured legal process. Understanding how these cases are decided can clarify the role of judges, juries, and legal procedures involved.
The Role of the Judge
The judge oversees the case, ensures legal procedures are followed, and makes rulings on motions and legal issues. In some cases, the judge also acts as the fact-finder, especially in bench trials where no jury is involved.
The Jury’s Role
In cases where a jury is involved, it is responsible for determining the facts. Jurors listen to evidence and testimonies, then deliberate to reach a verdict based on the instructions provided by the judge.
The Legal Process
The process begins with filing a complaint, followed by the defendant’s response. The case then proceeds through discovery, where both sides exchange evidence. After pre-trial motions, the case goes to trial, where evidence is presented, and witnesses testify.
At trial’s end, the jury (or judge in a bench trial) deliberates and issues a verdict. The judge then enters a judgment based on the verdict or ruling on any post-trial motions.