How Cases Move Through Federal Courts
Criminal Cases
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Jury trialsIn a jury trial, the function of the jury is to hear the evidence and decide whether it establishes that the defendant committed the crime or crimes alleged. The government presents its case, and the defendant may (but is not required to) present evidence in his or her behalf. Even if the defendant presents no evidence, the jury must decide whether the government’s evidence is sufficient to meet its burden of proof. The jury never decides what law applies to the case; that is the role of the judge. |
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