Criminal Trial
After a criminal defendant is formally charged with a crime (and in the absence of a guilty plea), the case proceeds to the trial phase. Below you will find resources pertaining to criminal procedure, what happens at trial and defendants' rights relating to trials, including the right to counsel, the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, the right to a speedy jury trial and more.
- Criminal Trial Overview
Overview of the six main phases of a criminal trial; from jury selection and opening statements to jury deliberation and verdict.
- Criminal Law Procedures FAQ
Answers to commonly asked questions about criminal law procedures, including the meaning of presumed innocence and reasons for not testifying at trial.
- Right to Counsel
Articles and resources pertaining to a criminal defendant's constitutional right to representation by an attorney.
- Fifth Amendment Right Against Self-Incrimination
Overview of a criminal defendant's constitutional right against self-incrimination, commonly called pleading the Fifth.
- Right to a Speedy Jury Trial
Explanation of a criminal defendant's Sixth Amendment right to a reasonably quick trial by an impartial jury.
- Double Jeopardy Protections
Explanation of a criminal defendant's constitutional protection against being tried more than once for the same offense (with some exceptions).
- The Sixth Amendment's Confrontation Clause
Overview of a criminal defendant's right to cross-examine witnesses and directly face witnesses who provide testimony at trial.