This paper discusses jury trial procedures in the United States of America.
In looking at the jury trial procedures in the United States of America this paper examines accusatory pleadings, jury instructions, the role of the judge and jury, the number of people on a jury, the prosecuting attorney’s responsibility, the role of the defense attorney, the examination of witnesses, opening statements, administering the oath, the defense presentation, the prosecution’s rebuttal, closing arguments, the charge, the deliberation and verdict, and sentencing the defendant.
“Although trial by jury is a basic American right, most of us have never made an attempt to perceive why that right was written into the Constitution and why this trial procedure is hardly ever found in other countries. The purpose of trial by jury, as specified by the Supreme Court is to prevent force by the government. To execute the role, jurors must act independently and faithfully, and they must be ready to say no if they believe that a prosecution would be unjust.”