Trial Process

The first step in the trial process is selecting the jurors. The jurors are chosen by means specified in the particular legislation of the state. Usually the designated official such as, jury commissioner, clerk of the court, or sheriff choose jurors. They pick the jurors from voter registration lists, motor vehicle records, or even combination of these sources. These names are put on pieces of paper and drawn randomly by some means. These potential jurors compose what is known as the jury panel, or venire.
After the jurors are selected the process of voir dire examination begins. This is the process of examining each potential juror under oath to see if he or she is acceptable to both the prosecution and the defense. After the jurors are selected the trial process may begin. The indictment or information is read, and the state makes its opening statement. In the opening statement, the prosecutor explains how the state plans to introduce witnesses and physical evidence...