What is the process of a trial by jury in criminal cases?

In criminal cases in Minnesota, a defendant has the right to choose a trial by jury. This means that a group of citizens – known as a jury – will listen to the evidence presented by both the prosecutor and the defense attorney, and then decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty of the crime. The first step of jury selection is voir dire, where the judge and lawyers from both sides question a group of potential jurors to determine who is most suitable for the case. After this part of the selection process, the judge and lawyers use their right to dismiss jurors without cause. This allows them to create a jury that is impartial and suitable to the specific case. Once the jury is selected, the trial begins. The jury is presented with evidence from both sides and must listen to testimony from witnesses, experts, and the accused. After all the evidence is presented, the lawyers present closing arguments. The prosecution explains why the defendant should be found guilty, and the defense highlights any reasonable doubt they can find. The jury then retires to deliberate and vote – typically in secret –on a verdict. The verdict must be unanimous and beyond a reasonable doubt. If the jury believes the defendant is guilty, the judge will impose the sentence. If the jury votes not guilty, the defendant is acquitted and the case is over.

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What is the process of a trial by jury in criminal cases?

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