1. What is the purpose of a criminal trial?
Answer: A criminal trial is to determine whether a defendant is guilty or not guilty of the charges against him. It ensures a fair evaluation of evidence while protecting the rights of the defendant under the law.
2. What are the steps in a criminal trial?
Answer:
Jury Selection (if applicable): Voir dire to select impartial jurors.
Opening Statements: Prosecution and defense both present their case to the jury or judge.
Presentation of Evidence: Prosecution presents its case with evidence and witnesses followed by the defense’s case.
Cross-Examination: Both sides question each other’s witnesses to challenge credibility or reliability.
Closing Arguments: Summarizing the evidence and persuading the jury or judge.
Jury Deliberation and Verdict: The jury deliberates and delivers a verdict, or the judge decides in a bench trial.
Sentencing (if convicted): The judge decides punishment according to laws and guidelines.
3. What is the role of the prosecution and defense during the trial?
Answer:
Prosecution: Represent the government, and the defendant’s guilt has to be proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
Defense: Defense advocates for the defendant, contests the prosecution’s evidence, and defends the rights of the defendant.
Read Also:
- https://quantumlawsolutions.com/10-common-questions-about-criminal-defense-answered/
- https://quantumlawsolutions.com/7-frequently-asked-questions-about-felonies-and-misdemeanors/
- https://quantumlawsolutions.com/20-questions-about-criminal-justice-you-should-know/
4. What is the standard of proof in a criminal trial?
Answer:
The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning there should be no reasonable uncertainty about their culpability.
5. What rights does a defendant have during a criminal trial?
Answer:
Defendants are entitled to:
A speedy and public trial
Legal representation
The right to remain silent (protection from self-incrimination)
The ability to confront and cross-examine witnesses
A trial by an impartial jury
Protection from double jeopardy (being tried twice for the same offense)