Trial is a formal legal proceeding overseen by a judge or jury, where evidence is examined and witnesses are heard. The trial process adheres to strict rules that allow parties to argue their positions and present a case. Ultimately, a jury determines guilt or innocence in criminal cases and the outcome of disputes in civil court.
Both sides present a case to the jury by calling witnesses, and introducing physical articles called exhibits. A witness is a person who testifies in a trial and is under oath to tell the truth. An exhibit is any physical article, like a document or photograph, introduced at trial to establish facts or support arguments in a case. Expert witness testimony is sometimes offered to help the jury or judge understand specialized details in a case.
After both sides have presented their case, each side has an opportunity to question the other’s witnesses. This is known as cross-examination. Attorneys for both sides then deliver closing arguments, summarizing the evidence and arguments they have made throughout the trial.
The jury then retires to a private jury room to discuss the case and make a decision. Once the jury makes a verdict, it reports back to the judge and is announced in open court. The verdict can be guilty, not guilty, or no finding (acquittal). If the defendant is found guilty, a separate sentencing phase follows to determine the appropriate punishment. While some people may choose to take their case to trial, many decide to settle their dispute because the trial can be costly and time consuming.
About the Author
