Read the
text and find a proper heading to each passage.
Steps in a
Jury Trial
The trial
begins by selecting the jury and continues through opening statements,
introduction of evidence, closing arguments, instructions to the jury, the
jury’s verdict, and the judgment.
Blank 1 Вопрос 1 . The judge calls the court to order and has a jury drawn from a pool
of citizens who have been called to serve. The jury must determine the facts of
the case. The lawyers question each juror selected from the pool, trying to
predict whether a juror will be fair or prejudiced. Attorneys consider the juror’s
background, education, experience, relationships, attitudes, and employment.
Blank 2 Вопрос 1 . After jurors are selected attorney for each side make opening
statements, explaining what they intend to prove. The plaintiff’s attorney goes
first. In some states, the defendant’s attorney may decide to postpone an
opening statement until after the plaintiff’s evidence has been presented.
Blank 3 Вопрос 1 . The plaintiff’s attorney presents all of the plaintiff’s
evidence. Types of evidence include the following: documentary items, such as
written contracts, sales slips, letters, or affidavits (sworn statements);
physical objects, such as weapons, photographs, and items from the crime scene;
and witness testimony. Witnesses respond to a subpoena, or order to appear, to
testify. Some attorneys present expert witnesses who give authoritative
opinions for the case.
The defense
attorney has the chance to cross-examine the plaintiff’s witnesses, asking
questions to test the truth of statements and bring out evidence that was not
developed on direct examination. When the plaintiff’s attorney rests, the
defendant’s attorney presents evidence favorable to his or her client. Defense
witnesses and any other evidence important to the defendant’s case are put
forward. The plaintiff’s attorney may then cross-examine the defendant’s
witnesses. When the attorneys have introduced all of their evidence, they rest
their cases.
Blank 4 Вопрос 1 . The plaintiff’s attorney is the first to present closing arguments,
following by the defense attorney. Each attorney summarizes the evidence and
suggests reasons why the judge or jury should find in favor of his or her
client.
Blank 5 Вопрос 1 . The judge must explain the law to the jury in a process called
jury instruction. Attorneys from both sides may suggest instructions.
Blank 6 Вопрос 1 . Members of the jury go to the jury room to deliberate upon
their verdict or decision. In a civil case, the jury influenced by the evidence
that carries the most weight, finds “in favor of” one of the parties. There are
variations from state to state as to the number of jurors who must agree to
reach a verdict.
Following
the jury’s verdict, the court issues a judgment, the court’s determination or
decision in the case.