After the police have finished their investigation and interviewed witnesses, prosecutors study the evidence and decide whether to charge the defendant with a crime. If they do, a grand jury will be called to listen to testimony and review the evidence. The grand jury votes in secret to decide whether there is enough evidence for the defendant to be convicted. If the grand jury believes there is, they issue an indictment. If they don’t, the case is dismissed.
During the trial, the prosecution and defense exchange information about the case, including witness lists, videos, photos, medical reports, and other documents. Your attorney will analyze this information and use it to build a solid defense strategy on your behalf. Your lawyer may file various motions to challenge the evidence or seek specific legal rulings. The prosecution and defense also participate in jury selection to select an impartial and unbiased jury.
Once the jury is selected, opening statements are given by both sides. The prosecutor presents their case first, as they have the burden of proving that the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense then presents their case and calls witnesses to testify. Each side will then be allowed to cross-examine the witness, asking questions about the facts of the case.
After each side has presented their cases, they will offer closing arguments to the jury. Then the jury will be sent away to deliberate until they reach a verdict. If they cannot agree on a unanimous verdict, the judge will declare a hung jury.
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