Trial by Jury: A Simple Outline

TRIAL BY JURY: An Easy to Understand Outline

INJURY OR WRONGFUL DEATH TRIAL KENTUCKY OR TENNESSEE

• The Judge enters Courtroom; everyone stands out of respect for the rule of law.
• Judge or Court Clerk calls potential Jurors who take seat in jury box.
• Attorneys on both sides question potential Jurors.
• Jurors are chosen and seated; those not chosen are allowed to leave.
• Attorneys give opening arguments; the party bringing the lawsuit goes first.
• The party bringing the lawsuit puts on evidence and enters exhibits.
• The party defending the lawsuit puts on evidence and enters exhibits.
• After all evidence is presented, the Attorneys for each side give closing arguments but this time, the party defending the lawsuit goes first.
• After closing arguments, the Judge instructs the Jury on the law.
• The Jury deliberates in the jury room over the jury instructions and evidence.
• Once the Jury reaches a verdict, the verdict is read by the Judge.
• The Attorneys are allowed to make legal arguments regarding the verdict.
• The Judge enters the verdict onto the Court records.
• Lastly, the Judge dismisses the Jury and thanks them for their service.