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

A jury trial is a trial in which a group of jurors, or citizens, decide the verdict of the case. In Massachusetts, a jury trial in criminal cases typically follows these steps: 1. Selection of a jury: The jurors are selected from a pool of people living in the county or district where the crime occurred. The prosecutor and defense attorney may have a chance to reject certain jurors as part of this process. 2. Opening statements: The prosecutor and defense attorney give a brief summary of the facts of the case and what each side believes will prove their case. 3. Presentation of evidence: Witnesses are called, documents are examined, and any other evidence is presented to the jury. 4. Closing arguments: Each side has the opportunity to explain why they believe the evidence they presented supports their case. 5. Jury instructions: The judge explains the law to the jury and explains the elements of the case that must be proven for each charge. 6. Jury deliberation: The jury meets in private to discuss the case and reach a verdict. 7. Verdict: The jury votes and if all members agree on the verdict, then the defendant is either found guilty or not guilty. At the end of the trial, the jury is thanked for their service and released. The jury verdict is the final decision in the criminal case.

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

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