the run away jury

Before a trial, I study the law, talk to witnesses, and gather evidence to build a case to prove the defendant committed a crime. I also negotiate with the other side to offer the defendant the most fair punishment.

During a trial, I present the evidence to convince the jury that the defendant committed a crime.

• prosecutor

• plaintiff

• juror

• witness

When I'm not in the courtroom, I finish up the official notes I took in the courtroom. I also mark all the evidence the lawyers want to use during the trial and give each piece of evidence a number.

When I'm in the courtroom, I use a computer to take official notes about what happens.

• judge

• victim

• court clerk

• court reporter

Before a trial, I am just a regular citizen going about my business.

During a trial, I listen carefully to all the evidence so I can help. Then I will go into a room with the rest of my group to decide what really happened.

• a defendant

• a prosecutor

• a plaintiff

• a juror

the final opportunity for the prosecutor and the defense attorney to talk to the jury.

These arguments allow both attorneys to summarize the testimony and evidence, and ask the jury to return a verdict of guilty or not guilty.

• cross-examination

• jury selection

• closing statement

• verdict

Before a trial, I meet with lawyers and tell them what I heard or saw, to help them prepare their cases.

During a trial, I come to the courtroom to testify about what heard or saw.

• witness

• victim

• court reporter

• judge

the number of the jurors in a jury panel

• 8

• 10

• 14

• 12

Before a trial, I read all the documents that each side files with the court so I know what's going on. I also go in the courtroom to make decisions about different issues that come up as the lawyers prepare for the trial.

During a jury trial, I make sure the lawyers follow courtroom rules and I explain to the jury what the law says so they can make a decision.

• judicial assistant

• judge

• defendant

• prosecutor

After hearing the jury instructions, the jury moves to the jury room to consider the case and reach its verdict.

• defense's case

• prosecution's rebuttal

• jury deliberation

• prosecutor's case

The attorneys use this time to give the jury an overview of the case they intend to present.  They are just statements, however, and cannot be considered as evidence by the jury. 

The defense then follows with their opening statement.

• Opening statement

• Jury selection

• verdict

• jury selection

The prosecutor or plaintiff’s attorney again goes first.  They present evidence in the form of physical evidence or documents and also the testimony of witnesses. 

Once the direct examination is finished, the defendant’s attorney gets an opportunity to question the witness.

• Defense's case

• prosecution rebuttal

• closing statement

• prosecutor's case