It may be very stressful and upsetting if you or a loved one is being investigated for a crime. The trial is one of the most critical phases of the criminal justice system. The prosecution’s goal in the trial will be to establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt by presenting evidence. The defense will present its facts and arguments in opposition to this evidence. You always have to look out for yourself and give good pointers along with supporting pieces of evidence.
The procedure might be less stressful and anxiety-inducing if an individual knows the legal proceedings. In these situations, it is crucial to understand the essential elements of a criminal trial and what should be expected at each phase. If you want assistance with legal counsel, you may also contact the Hitchcock DWI defense attorney.
Breaking down a criminal trial:
- Selection of juries
An essential component of a criminal trial is jury selection. Prosecutors and defense lawyers will interrogate prospective jurors in this phase to determine their lack of bias and ability to provide a final and honest verdict based solely on the evidence. Being impartial and fair is a crucial consideration for jury selection. Jury members should not be sided towards any side. This can create a conflict, and the case will not be treated fairly.
- Introduction
The prosecution and defense teams will provide the jury with initial arguments during the opening statements. The prosecution will lay out the charges against the defendant and the evidence they want to present. The defense will provide its version of events and any supporting documentation for its position. This will allow them to open up nicely and present their side to the jury.
- Display of the Evidence
The jury will hear testimony from the prosecutor in order to build their case against the defendant. This evidence may include written materials, physical proof, and witness accounts. Now, you must have the proper proof against your opposition. It is always good to have witnesses as they can connect with the jury on the human level. The defense may also submit evidence to disprove the prosecution’s case and establish their innocence. If you know that the defense is building a case on fake or inadmissible proof, you can easily counter it with the help of your attorney.
- Cross-questioning
The chance to cross-examine witnesses offered by the other side is available to both the prosecution and the defense lawyers. The purpose of doing so is to doubt the witness’s trustworthiness or the offered proof. In either side’s case, cross-examination can be a potent weapon.
If you think they are presenting or trying to fake a witness, you can easily cross-examine them and catch them at a weak point. Remember that no fake witness can have the story completely right in their mind. They will make 1 mistake, and it will be enough for you to crack open their case.
