What is the process of a criminal trial?

A criminal trial in North Carolina is the process where a criminal defendant is accused of committing an offense. Before a trial can begin, the prosecution must prove that the accused individual is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The trial process begins with jury selection. The attorneys on both sides will inquire potential jurors to ensure they match the criteria set by the state and decide if the juror is biased. After that, an opening statement from the prosecution and defense will be given to the jury, in which the lawyers will discuss the facts of the case. The prosecution will then call witnesses to testify against the defendant, often including any victims, investigative officers, and other people with knowledge of the crime. The defense will then cross-examine the witnesses to point out any inconsistencies or weaknesses in their testimony. The prosecution and defense will then present any evidence that supports their case. This is usually in the form of physical evidence, such as photos of the crime scene, or testimony from experts. At the end of the trial, both the prosecution and defense will make closing arguments to the jury. The jury will then deliberate and eventually decide the outcome of the case. Lastly, the verdict will be presented in open court, usually in the form of a guilty or not guilty verdict. If the defendant is found guilty, they will be sentenced for the crime. If the defendant is found not guilty, they are released and the trial is over.

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What is the process of a criminal trial?

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