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Most people don’t have much experience in a courtroom, so being chosen for jury duty can be an intimidating experience. While you’ll be expected to do little more than listen, the room will likely be full of people, from the court stenographer to the attorneys, bailiffs, and spectators. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect if you’ve been selected for jury duty.

A Brief Guide to Courtroom Trials

The Prosecutor Presents Their Case

In criminal trials, the prosecutor will present their case first, calling witnesses, asking questions, and introducing relevant evidence into the record. For instance, they may ask an eyewitness what they saw or request an expert’s opinion on physical evidence.

court stenographerAfter each witness, the defense will have a chance to cross-examine, asking questions of their own to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case. If a witness contradicts themselves, the attorneys may ask the court stenographer to read statements directly from previous testimony.

The Defense Tries to Create Reasonable Doubt

A defense attorney’s job is to create a reasonable doubt about the guilt of the defendant. They may call another witness to offer alternative explanations for physical evidence, enter evidence into the record, or try to establish an alibi. The prosecution will also have their chance to challenge each witness, which may involve questioning their professional credentials or looking for holes in the defendant’s story.

The Sentencing

Ultimately, the power to decide guilt or innocence rests with you and the other jurors, but judges typically have discretion over sentencing. During the sentencing hearing, the judge will consider the complaining witness’ statements, the defendant’s past criminal behavior, and mitigating factors in the case. Finally, they’ll issue a decision, after which you and the other jurors will be free to exit the courtroom.

 

As Hawaii’s largest and best-known reporting firms, Ralph Rosenberg-Court Reporters in Honolulu offers high-quality court stenographers to attorneys and courtrooms across the state. Their highly-trained team uses the most advanced equipment available, creating extremely accurate transcriptions of trials, meetings, and depositions in real time. Visit their website for more information about their services, or call (808) 524-2090 to request the help of a court stenographer.

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