The indictment
The district court's process starts when we get the prosecution's indictment and any evidence list. The indictment describes the crime and the breach of the law. The evidence list shows what evidence the prosecution will present, like witnesses, videos, or documents. The court sets a date for the main hearing.
The main hearing
During the main hearing, the defendant has the right to a defense attorney. The court appoints and pays for the defense attorney, but the defendant can choose their own. If the chosen attorney is from outside the court's area, the defendant usually pays for their travel and stay.
The hearing starts with the judges, one professional and two lay judges, entering the courtroom. When they enter, everyone in the courtroom rises. The professional judge introduces everyone and asks if anyone thinks the judges are biased. The prosecutor reads the indictment, and the judge asks if the defendant pleads guilty.
Prosecutor's opening statement
The prosecutor explains the case and the evidence. The defense attorney can then make brief remarks.
Defendant's testimony
The defendant can testify but doesn't have to. The defendant is asked to tell the truth but can't be punished for lying.
The judge asks the first question, followed by the prosecutor, defense attorney, victim's counsel, experts, and lay judges.
Victims and witnesses testify
If the victim has a counsel, the victim testifies before the defendant.
Witnesses testify after the defendant. They must swear to tell the truth. Close witnesses can ask to be excused.
The party that called the witness asks questions first. The victim's counsel, judges, and experts can also ask questions. The defendant can ask questions through their attorney.
Review of evidence
All relevant evidence must be presented and reviewed. This includes photos, documents, and objects. Typical evidence includes crime scene photos, DNA analyses, phone logs, police reports, and medical reports.
The defendant can comment on each piece of evidence.
Expert Testimony If needed, the court can call experts like psychiatrists or forensic scientists. Experts testify after all witnesses and evidence are presented. They are usually present throughout the hearing.
Conclusion
The hearing ends with summaries from the prosecutor, defense attorney, and victim's counsel. They discuss the evidence, legal rules, and their desired outcome.
The prosecutor suggests a punishment or acquittal. The defense attorney argues for acquittal or leniency. The victim's counsel focuses on compensation claims.
The defendant can make a final comment before the court adjourns.
Deliberation
The judge declares the hearing closed. The judges then discuss and decide the case in private. They base their decision only on what was presented during the hearing.
The professional judge writes the judgment, which all judges sign. The judgment is read to the defendant in court or communicated in another way.