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

In Texas, the process of a trial by jury in criminal cases is established by the United States Constitution and Texas law. A trial by jury is when a selected group of people (known as the jury) will hear the evidence presented in a criminal case and decide a verdict of guilty or not guilty. The judge assigned to the trial will choose and swear in the jury after both the prosecution and defense present their jury selection peremptory challenges. After the jury is sworn in, the prosecuting attorney will present their case first, usually followed by the defendant’s attorney to present their defense, and then the prosecution will have a rebuttal. After the evidence is presented, the judge will give instructions to the jury, which they will use as a basis for their decision. When it is time for the jury to decide, they will deliberate and debate the evidence presented in the trial. After they reach a unanimous decision, they will write it down, sign it, and return it to the judge. The judge will then declare the verdict and inform the jury they are discharged. The verdict will determine if the defendant is guilty or not guilty, and if they are found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence.

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

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