If there is a potential that you’ll have to go to trial, then you want to know all you can about the process. By understanding what happens, you can make a better judgment on whether you want to take a plea deal or go through the entire trial.
A trial can be good, depending on the specifics of your case. For instance, there is a jury in a trial, which means that there are multiple people who will hear your story and decide if you should be penalized for the crimes you’re accused of.
What are the stages of a trial?
There are six stages to a trial. These include:
- Choosing a jury
- Opening statements
- Cross-examination and witness testimony
- Closing arguments
- Jury instruction
- Deliberation and verdict
During each of these stages, the jury listens to your case. The jury is given instructions, discusses the case and comes up with a verdict in the end.
Is it worth going to a trial? Isn’t a plea deal better?
A plea deal can be better, but it’s not guaranteed. Similarly, there is no guarantee that the case will go the way you want at trial. However, if you are innocent and don’t want to face time in prison or other penalties, the only option may be to go to trial. If you take a plea deal, it’s normal that you’d plead guilty.
Your attorney will discuss your options with you and let you know their opinion on going to trial. Everything comes down to evidence and how well you can fight back against the charges.