Trial
- Twelve jurors and at least one alternate are selected to hear the case
- Once the trial begins, both attorneys are given the opportunity to speak directly to the jury to explain what they hope to prove in the case.
- During the case, witnesses are called to the stand to give testimony. The prosecutor and defense attorney have the opportunity to cross-examine the other side’s witnesses.
- After all of the witnesses have had a chance to speak, both attorneys present their final arguments in the case.
- After the closing arguments, the jury is asked to discuss the case among themselves to determine if they think the defendant is guilty or not. Once the jury makes their decision, they notify the judge. If the verdict is not guilty, the defendant is released.
- If the jury finds the defendant guilty, the judge sentences the defendant, telling him/her the amount of time he/she will spend in prison and/or how much they owe in fines.
- If the defendant maintains his or her innocence or if there were mistakes made by the legal team or court in the case, the defendant appeal to the court of Appeals for review the case. If the court overturns the verdict, the case goes back to the superior court for a new trial.
options: jury deliberation & verdict, appeal, jury selection, closing statements, opening statements, sentencing, or presentation of evidence
Some additional steps that may occur during a trial include:
- Presentation of evidence: This includes documents, physical evidence, and witness testimony that support the arguments of the prosecution or defense.
- Jury selection: This process involves questioning potential jurors to ensure they can be fair and impartial in the case.
- Jury deliberation & verdict: The jury deliberates on the evidence presented and ultimately reaches a verdict of guilty or not guilty.
- Sentencing: If the defendant is found guilty, the judge determines the appropriate punishment.
- Appeal: If the defendant believes there were errors in the trial that affected the outcome, they may appeal to a higher court for a review of the case.