What is the order of events in a criminal trial? Why are trials described as "highly choreographed"? Is such rigid structure a help or a hindrance in seeing justice done?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The highly structured order of events during a trial is needed to ensure that the accused's constitutional rights are met. The structure process can impede the defendant's right to a speedy trial.Once the jury has been selected, the trial date set, and the judge selected, the opening statements are given first by the prosecutor and then by defense attorney. These statements are followed by the prosecutor's evidence and then cross-examination and redirect and re-cross-examination of witnesses. This is followed by the defense's response, and final motions and closing arguments. At the end of the presentation of closing arguments, the judge gives instructions to the jury and the jury begins deliberation. The trial closes with a verdict from the jury. If found guilty, the defendant meets with a probation officer, a sentencing report is written, and the defendant will at a final court proceeding to receive their sentence.