What are the rights of a criminal defendant during a trial?

The rights of a criminal defendant during a trial in Washington are mainly those of a fair trial. This includes the right to a speedy trial, to remain silent, to be represented by an attorney, to be informed of the charges, to confront witnesses, to present evidence and witnesses, to have access to the evidence against them, and to have a jury decide whether they are guilty or not. A defendant also has the right to challenge any of the evidence presented by the prosecution, and they also have the right to have their attorney cross-examine any witnesses or evidence presented against them. The jury has to be impartial and must not have any preconceived notions about the defendant. Additionally, criminal defendants in Washington have the right to challenge the legality of their arrest, the constitutionality of the law that they are accused of breaking, and to make other legal arguments. Defendants also have the right to appeal the case to a higher court if they believe the jury has made a decision that is not supported by the facts or evidence presented. Finally, defendants have the right to choose whether they want a jury trial or whether they will waive the right to a trial and have the judge decide the outcome of their case instead.

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