Trial law is the determination of an accused person’s innocence or guilt by means of the judicial examination of the issues of the case in accordance with the law of the land. Trial law deals not only with criminal cases, but civil law cases, as well. The two parties in a trial, the defendant and plaintiff, or their counsels, put forward their cases and question the witnesses; on the basis of this evidence the jury or other tribunal body decides on the innocence or guilt (in the case of civil law, the liability) of the defendant.

What does a Trial Attorney do?

Trial attorneys represent clients involved in litigation, both civil and criminal. Criminal lawyers may represent plaintiffs or defendants, the "people," or the accused. Civil litigators take the side of a party in a dispute where no crime is involved. The trial attorney's job is to persuade a jury of the facts in a case, and to display them in a way that best supports their client's position.

Preparing for a trial can take a trial attorney several months to do. And, the trial itself also requires a lot of work on the lawyer's part. In court, trial attorneys argue motions, meet with judges, prepare scheduling orders, select jurors, and argue cases. Out of court, trial attorneys review files and scheduling orders, contact witnesses, take depositions, and talk to clients.

Should I hire a Trial Attorney?

The prosecutor or opposing trial attorney will have extensive knowledge of the law of evidence, procedure and other substantive law in the trial of cases. In order to level the playing field and assure that your rights are protected, you also need to retain a trial attorney to effectively present your side of the case. Use the form on this page to find a qualified trial law attorney to suit your needs and legal situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 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
• Is There Always A Jury?
  No, in many cases there is no jury.  Cases that are tried before a judge without a jury is called a “bench trial.” Juries are usually found in criminal trials.  more
• Can Anyone View A Trial?
  Generally yes, most trials are open to the public. This is because the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution establishes the right of the accused to a public trial. Rarely a trial will … more