The procedural steps involved at a trial typically comprise of
the following:
- Voir Dire: A jury is enpaneled before the beginning of trial.
This is done after interviewing prospective jurors, a process
called voir dire.
- Opening Statements: After a jury is empaneled, each side
presents statements summarizing its respective case.
- Prosecution Evidence and Witnesses: The state presents its case
first and while doing so, it has the burden of proving the
defendant’s guilt, beyond a reasonable doubt. For this, it can call
witnesses and offer other evidence.
- Motion for Directed Verdict: At the close of the state’s case,
a defendant can move for a directed verdict or a judgment of
acquittal.
- Defense Evidence and Witnesses: The defendant presents evidence
and call witnesses in response to the state’s case.
- Closing Arguments: Each side can make concluding arguments
after presenting evidence.
- Jury Deliberations and Verdict: The jury retires to deliberate
over the evidence. If the jurors cannot reach a unanimous verdict,
the judge may declare a mistrial.
- Post-Trial Motions: If declared guilty, the defendant can bring
post-trial motions, such as a motion for judgment of acquittal or a
motion for new trial.
Please post the other questions separately.