Warren County, County Court

Trial Process

The process of a jury trial:

  1. Jury selection: question-and-answer session with the attorneys (or unrepresented parties) and jurors.
  2. Opening statements are delivered by each party.
  3. Presentation of evidence and testimony of witnesses - plaintiff presents evidence and asks questions first, then the defendant.
  4. Closing arguments are delivered by each party.
  5. The judge presents jury instructions (also called "charging the jury") which may include certain rules on what may be discussed during deliberations.
  6. Case is given to the jury for deliberation.
  7. Verdict is announced in open court.