What is a federal criminal jury trial?

A federal criminal jury trial is a trial in which a jury (often comprised of 12 people) listens to the evidence presented by the prosecution (the side accusing the defendant of the crime) and the defense (the side representing the defendant) in order to decide whether the defendant is guilty of the federal crime accused. In South Carolina, these trials are conducted in federal court. The federal judge presiding over the trial will explain the law to the jury and how it applies in the case. The prosecution will present its evidence first, which may include witness testimony, documents, and physical evidence. The defense then has the opportunity to cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses and present its own evidence. After both sides present their case, the judge will instruct the jury on the law and the jury will deliberate in private to decide the verdict. A jury must unanimously agree to a guilty verdict. If not, then the judge will declare a mistrial and the judge may schedule for another trial. In South Carolina, a federal criminal jury trial is a constitutional right for those accused of a federal crime and is part of the justice system necessary to ensure fairness and protect the rights of defendants.

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