Most criminal cases in Glendale resolve through dismissal or plea agreements. However, some cases proceed all the way to trial. If your case is heading in that direction, you may feel uncertain about what to expect. Therefore, understanding how criminal trials work in Arizona can help you prepare and make informed decisions.
A trial is where the State must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Unlike pretrial hearings or negotiations, a trial places the evidence directly before a judge or jury. Guardian Law represents individuals throughout Glendale and Maricopa County who are prepared to fight their charges at trial when necessary.
Why Do Some Cases Go to Trial?
Although prosecutors often offer plea agreements, not every offer is fair or reasonable. A case may proceed to trial when:
- The defendant maintains innocence
- The evidence is weak or inconsistent
- Witness credibility is questionable
- Constitutional violations occurred
- The plea offer is too harsh
- The risks of conviction are balanced by strong defenses
In many situations, the willingness to go to trial strengthens the defense position. Prosecutors are more likely to negotiate fairly when they know the defense is fully prepared for courtroom litigation.
The Right to a Trial
Under the United States Constitution and Arizona law, every criminal defendant has the right to a trial. In most misdemeanor and felony cases, that means a jury trial. However, in some situations, a defendant may choose a bench trial, where a judge decides the case without a jury.
At trial, the burden of proof rests entirely on the prosecution. The defendant does not have to prove innocence. Instead, the State must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
Jury Selection
Trial begins with jury selection, also known as voir dire. During this process:
- Potential jurors are questioned
- Attorneys evaluate bias or conflicts
- Both sides may remove certain jurors
The goal is to select a fair and impartial jury. Because juror perception can significantly influence a verdict, this stage is critical.
Opening Statements
After jury selection, both sides present opening statements. The prosecutor outlines the State’s case. Then, the defense may present its theory of the case.
Importantly, opening statements are not evidence. Instead, they provide a roadmap for what each side expects the evidence to show.
Presentation of Evidence
The prosecution presents its case first. This may include:
- Testimony from law enforcement officers
- Witness testimony
- Forensic evidence
- Medical records
- Surveillance or body camera footage
- Digital evidence such as text messages
The defense has the right to cross-examine every witness. Effective cross-examination can expose inconsistencies, exaggerations, or unreliable testimony.
After the State rests its case, the defense may present evidence. However, the defendant is not required to testify or present witnesses.
Motions During Trial
During trial, the defense may file motions, including a motion for judgment of acquittal. If the judge determines that the State failed to present sufficient evidence, the court may dismiss the charges before the case reaches the jury.
Although not common, this motion can be powerful in cases with weak evidence.
Closing Arguments
Once both sides finish presenting evidence, they deliver closing arguments. At this stage, attorneys summarize the evidence and explain why the jury should rule in their favor.
The defense emphasizes reasonable doubt. If the jury harbors reasonable doubt about any element of the offense, it must return a not guilty verdict.
Jury Deliberation and Verdict
After closing arguments, the judge instructs the jury on the law. Then, the jury deliberates in private.
The jury may return one of the following verdicts:
- Guilty
- Not guilty
- Guilty of a lesser-included offense
If the jury cannot reach a unanimous decision, the court may declare a mistrial.
What Happens After the Verdict?
If the jury returns a not guilty verdict, the case ends, and the defendant is acquitted.
If the jury returns a guilty verdict, the court schedules a sentencing hearing. Sentencing depends on:
- The classification of the offense
- Whether the crime is designated as dangerous
- Prior criminal history
- Aggravating or mitigating factors
In felony cases, sentencing may occur weeks after the verdict.
How Long Does a Criminal Trial Last?
Trial length depends on the complexity of the case. Some misdemeanor trials may last a day or two. In contrast, felony trials involving multiple witnesses or forensic evidence may last several days or even weeks.
Preparation often takes far longer than the trial itself. Thorough investigation and strategy development are essential.
Risks and Benefits of Going to Trial
Going to trial carries both potential benefits and risks.
Potential Benefits
- Full acquittal
- Dismissal due to insufficient evidence
- Leverage for better plea negotiations
Potential Risks
- Conviction and harsher sentencing
- Loss of previously offered plea agreements
- Increased court costs
Because each case presents unique risks, careful evaluation is critical before deciding to proceed to trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all criminal cases go to trial?
No. Many cases resolve through dismissal or plea agreements. However, trial remains an important option.
Can charges be dismissed during trial?
Yes. If the State fails to present sufficient evidence, the judge may dismiss the case.
Does the defendant have to testify?
No. Defendants have the right to remain silent. The jury cannot hold that silence against them.
What if the jury cannot agree?
If the jury cannot reach a unanimous verdict, the court may declare a mistrial. The prosecution may decide whether to retry the case.
Contact Guardian Law Today
When a criminal case goes to trial in Glendale, preparation and strategy matter. You need experienced, aggressive representation ready to challenge the State’s evidence and protect your rights before a judge and jury.
Call Guardian Law today at (602) 888-8020 for a confidential consultation.