California Criminal Trial Process
Understand Your Criminal Defense Case
If you have been arrested for a crime, no doubt you may be curious about what you will be facing. Despite the complexity of our country’s legal system, most criminal trials are conducted similarly. Our attorney explains how the trial is held and what each step of the process entails. Understanding the criminal trial system not only prepares you for what is to come, but can also help you get a better grasp of your own case and the defense strategies that will be used to help protect your rights.
Call (657) 571-2266 today to get started with our exceptional legal team.
Selecting a Jury
Except in rare cases, the first step of the trial process is selecting jury members. The selection is conducted with the judge, the plaintiff’s attorney, and the defendant’s attorney. They ask the potential jurors a serious of questions pertaining to the case, including questions about ideological opinions and life experiences. A potential juror may not be selected for a couple of reasons: The judge excused the potential juror due to their answers The defense or prosecution may exclude an individual through use of “peremptory challenges” and challenges “for cause” If a potential jury member gives answers that seem biased or to favor a certain side unfairly, the prosecution or defense may request that individual not be used in the trial. There are only a certain number of jurors that may be excluded. Once both parties are content with the unbiased jurors that have been selected, the trial may begin.
Opening Statements
The trial begins with the prosecutor and the defense presenting beginning arguments. Witnesses and evidence are usually not presented during this time.
30 Years of Proven Results.
Real Acquittals, Time and Again
Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard
-
“I cannot say enough positive things about Jacqueline Goodman. She is an excellent attorney who is persistent, committed, and extremely knowledgeable. She listens, is compassionate, and has shown a genuine interest in my well-being.”- Former Client
-
“She took care of my cases with tenacity, professionalism, experience, and care. She handled all my cases (that I've had hanging over my head for twenty years) in a few months. I asked for a reduction, and she got them expunged!”- Rick B.
-
“During a very unsettling time for our family, Ms. Goodman was very knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive. Her team was always helpful and efficient as well. We got the outcome we hoped for and I would highly recommend them.”- Christina D.
Closing Arguments
Very similar to opening statements, the prosecution and the defense are able to provide statements that summarize the case and the evidence they provided. It is the final chance for both parties to present statements to convince the jury in their favor.
Deliberation and Verdict
During the final stage, the judge provides the jury with instruction and they deliberate. The jury attempts to agree on whether or not the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Depending on the case, the deliberation process can last anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of weeks.
In California, if the jury is unable to unanimously agree on a guilty or not guilty verdict (this is also known as a “hung jury”) a retrial will occur with a different jury.
Leading Sex Crimes Defense Training Nationwide for Over a Decade.
Leading Sex Crimes Defense Training Nationwide for Over a Decade.
-
Co-Chair Sex Crimes Defense Education
Training lawyers nationally for 14 years.
-
Criminal Trial Lawyer of the Year
Chosen by Lawyers as Best Lawyers 2026 Lawyer of the Year-Orange County
-
State Bar Certified Specialist
Awarded to specialists who have demonstrated proficiency in specified areas of law.