What is the process of a jury trial in criminal cases?
A jury trial is an important part of Virginia’s criminal procedure. In this type of trial, a jury—made up of citizens—listens to evidence and decides if the alleged offender is guilty or not guilty. The process begins when the court randomly selects citizens from the community to serve on the jury. This selection is known as the jury pool. Each member of the jury pool is asked questions to determine their fitness to serve on the jury. Once the jury is selected, the trial proper begins. The prosecution presents its case first. This includes introducing evidence and calling witnesses to testify. The defense follows with its own evidence and witnesses. The jury then deliberates. During this process, the jury discusses the evidence and testimony presented at the trial in order to decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. In some cases, the jury may decide to find the defendant partially guilty as well. Once the jury reaches a verdict, it is read in court. If the defendant is found guilty, the court will then proceed with sentencing, which may include probation, fines, or jail time. If the defendant is found not guilty, the defendant is free to go. The jury trial process guarantees the right to a fair trial for the accused and allows citizens to play a role in the justice system. It is an important part of Virginia’s criminal procedure.
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