What are the steps in a civil trial?

A civil trial in Florida is a legal proceeding in which parties present evidence to a judge or jury in an effort to resolve a civil dispute. Generally, the steps involved in a civil trial are the same throughout the country, though certain specifics, such as time frames and other procedural matters, may vary from state to state. The steps in a civil trial typically include: 1. Pre-Trial – This includes the filing of pleadings, such as complaints or petitions, answered by the defendant, motions and discovery. 2. Jury Selection – The selection of jurors from a panel of potential jurors. 3. Opening Statements – Both the plaintiff’s and defendant’s attorneys present statements summarizing the facts of the case as they see them. 4. Presentation of Evidence – Both the plaintiff and defendant present evidence, consisting of testimony, documents, and/or objects, in an effort to prove their respective cases. 5. Closing Arguments – Both sides present their closing arguments, summarizing the evidence and law in an effort to persuade the jury. 6. Jury Instruction – The judge will provide the jury with instructions about the law that applies to the case. 7. Jury Deliberation – The jury will retreat to deliberate and decide the case based on the facts presented and the law. 8. Verdict – Once a decision has been reached, the jury foreperson will announce the verdict in court. 9. Post-Verdict – After the verdict is announced, the judge will enter a judgment in accordance with the jury’s verdict. The judge may also take further action, such as awarding damages or granting equitable relief.

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