What are the different stages of a criminal trial?

In Delaware, criminal trials usually follow a standard process that consists of the same stages. These stages are: 1. Pre-trial: During this stage, the prosecutor and defense team investigate, exchange information, and determine who will be testifying. The defense attorney will work to establish their client’s innocence and may file motions to suppress certain evidence or dismiss the charges. 2. Plea Bargaining: This is when the defendant and their attorney negotiate with the prosecution to come to a plea agreement outside of court. In exchange for a guilty plea, the defendant may get a lesser sentence or reduced charges. 3. Arraignment: This is the formal stage of the trial where the defendant is read their charges and enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. 4. Discovery: This is the process of sharing evidence between the two sides. This allows each side to prepare for the trial. 5. Pre-trial Motions: Both sides can make requests for certain things to be done before the trial or during the trial. This could include motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. 6. Jury Selection: The defense team and prosecution will select potential jurors to hear the case in court. 7. Opening Arguments: The prosecution and defense will each make their case to the jury before the trial begins. 8. Presentation of Evidence: Each side provides evidence to support their argument and tries to disprove the arguments of the other side. 9. Closing Arguments: Each side summarizes their argument and attempts to convince the jury of their argument. 10. Verdict: The jury makes their decision of whether the defendant is guilty or not-guilty. Although the criminal trial process is standard in Delaware, there are some cases which may skip certain steps or spend more time on a particular step, depending on the nature of the case.

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What are the different stages of a criminal trial?

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