THE SUMMATION Each side summarizes its key arguments and evidence No new evidence can be introduced If the defence presented evidence it goes first Law amp Order Closing Arguments George Zimmerman closing arguments ID: 160094
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Slide1
Reaching a VerdictSlide2
THE SUMMATION
Each
side summarizes its key arguments and evidence
No new evidence can be introduced
If the
defence
presented evidence, it goes first
Law & Order Closing Arguments
George Zimmerman closing argumentsSlide3
THE CHARGE TO THE JURY
The
judge reviews the facts and defines the legal issues in the case for the juryShe can indicate which evidence is more important than others
The charge to the jury is often the basis for appeals if one side sees legal errors which may prejudice the jury
George Zimmerman CaseSlide4
JURY DELIBERATION
Verdicts
must be unanimousNote-taking is not always allowed so jurors must often rely on their memories
The jurors determine the facts in the case; the judge at this stage only rules on lawFacts are considered in two steps:Is the evidence believable?
How important is the believable evidence?
What the jury believes determines which law applies. Ex. A hunting incident
Reasonable doubt means that the jury gives the accused the benefit of the doubt
It also means if they believe the defence’s evidence or can’t decide whom to believe, they must acquit
If the judge accepts their inability to reach a decision, they are dismissed ( a hung jury)
A jury may never disclose what went on in the jury room
Doctor MacNeill Murders wifeSlide5
OUTCOME
A
defendant acquitted is free to goThe jury usually has no say in the penaltySentencing may occur then or at a later
date
Sentencing Hearing – Trevor
Zinck
Doctor
MacNeill
Case Reaches a verdict