Does the defense have to disclose evidence in criminal cases?

Defense attorneys must disclose: Reports or recordings of witness statements; The results of physical or mental examinations, scientific tests, experiments and comparisons intended to be used for trial; Any real evidence the defense intends to use at trial.

What does the jury decide in a criminal trial?

A trial jury, also known as a petit jury, decides whether the defendant committed the crime as charged in a criminal case, or whether the defendant injured the plaintiff in a civil case. Consists of 6-12 people. Trials are generally public, but jury deliberations are private.

Are juries always used to resolve criminal cases?

The vast majority of U.S. criminal cases are not concluded with a jury verdict, but rather by plea bargain. Both prosecutors and defendants often have a strong interest in resolving the criminal case by negotiation resulting in a plea bargain. If the defendant waives a jury trial, a bench trial is held.

Who decides guilt in a criminal case?

During the trial, lawyers present evidence through witnesses who testify about what they saw or know. After all the evidence is presented, the lawyers give their closing arguments. Finally, the jury decides if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. The jury must find the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Does prosecution share evidence with defense?

A prosecutor has a continuing obligation to provide the defendant documents and other information which may reflect upon the case. Further, the prosecutor is required to provide the defense with evidence that may hurt his case, called exculpatory evidence. This evidence could show the defendant’s innocence.

Why is trial by jury important?

Jury trials educate jurors about the justice system. People who serve on juries have a greater respect for the system when they leave. judge your guilt or innocence. In a civil case, a jury of citizens will determine community standards and expectations in accordance with the law.

Why is it that the prosecution is the first to present evidence at trial?

These statements usually are short like an outline and do not involve witnesses or evidence. The prosecutor makes an opening statement first because the Government has the burden of proving that the defendant committed the crime.

Are all criminal cases heard by a jury?

The right to trial by jury in a criminal case resides in both Article III, Section 2 of the federal Constitution (“The Trial of all Crimes, except in Cases of Impeachment, shall be by Jury”) and the Sixth Amendment (“In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an …