Trial
When a person goes to trial it can be incredibly scary. However, there are many different types of trials. The main purpose of a trial is to either settle a dispute between two parties or to determine an accused person’s innocence or guilt. At trial, the parties involved will bring information to prove their side; this information is called “evidence.” The person in charge of the trial, usually a judge or referee, will decide what evidence is admissible. Based upon the evidence that is admitted, the trial court will be able to determine if a person is innocent or guilty or who is the correct party. However, the person who is either prosecuting the case or trying to receive damages will have the burden of proof. This means that there is a presumption of innocence of the defending party. Depending on what type of trial it is, the burden of proof will need to meet a certain threshold. These determinations can be made by a judge or a jury depending on the circumstances.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What Is a Court Reporter or Stenographer?
A court reporter will transcribe, or write down, all testimony, arguments and rulings as they take place in the court room. The document that they write is called a “transcript” … more -
What happens during a deposition?
If you file a personal injury lawsuit, the attorney for the defendant will likely “depose” you or take your deposition. A deposition is the process in which the defendant’s … more -
Who Can Be A Judge?
A judge is the person who presides over a court of law. The judge has usually practiced law for a significant amount of time before being either elected or named to serve as a judge. … more
Legal Articles
- Do You Swear to Tell the Whole Truth? The Admissibility of Lie Detector Tests
One of the greatest challenges for the judge and jury in the courtroom is to determine which witnesses are telling the truth. While witnesses must promise to tell the truth before taking the witness stand, judges and juries often hear conflicting testimony that indicates someone is being untruthful. It might seem like the technology of the polygraph, also known as the lie detector … more - Do You Need An Attorney... or Can You Represent Yourself?
There are many circumstances in the United States when a person is entitled to represent himself in legal matters. The Supreme Court has found that the Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution which guarantees the right to counsel also allows a person to represent himself at trial. Similarly, many states have constitutional provisions which allow self … more
