Steps in a Trial
Click on the links below for more information on this particular subject area. Main subject areas for the "How Courts Work" section are linked at the bottom of these pages.
Diagram of How a Case Moves Through the Courts
Civil and Criminal Cases
Settling Cases
Pre-trial Procedures in Civil Cases
Jurisdiction and Venue
Pleadings
Motions
Discovery
Pre-Trial Conferences
Pre-trial Procedures in Criminal Cases
Bringing the Charge
Arrest Procedures
Pre-Trial Court Appearances in Criminal Cases
Bail
Plea Bargaining
Civil and Criminal Trials
Officers of the Court
The Jury Pool
Selecting the Jury
Opening Statements
Evidence
Direct Examination
Cross-examination
Motion for Directed Verdict/Dismissal
Presentation of Evidence by the Defense
Rebuttal
Final Motions
Closing Arguments
Instructions to the Jury
Mistrials
Jury Deliberations
Verdict
Motions after Verdict
Judgment
Sentencing
Appeals
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Mediation