Table of Contents
A jury trial is a legal process where a group of citizens evaluates evidence and determines the outcome of a case. It involves several stages, each with specific procedures and roles. Understanding these steps can clarify what occurs during a jury trial.
Jury Selection
The process begins with jury selection, where potential jurors are called to court. The judge and attorneys question them to identify any biases or conflicts of interest. This process is called voir dire. The goal is to select impartial jurors who can fairly evaluate the case.
Opening Statements
After jurors are selected, both sides present opening statements. These statements outline each party’s case and what they intend to prove. Opening statements do not include evidence but set the stage for the trial.
Presentation of Evidence
The prosecution or plaintiff presents evidence to support their case. This includes witness testimony, documents, and physical evidence. The defense then has the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses and challenge the evidence presented.
Closing Arguments and Jury Deliberation
Once all evidence is presented, attorneys make closing arguments, summarizing their cases and highlighting key points. The judge then provides instructions to the jury on how to evaluate the evidence. The jury deliberates privately to reach a verdict based on the facts and instructions.