Although some of the steps in a trial case may change depending on the type of case to be dealt with, in general, there is a common guideline, and the steps would be organized thus:
1. Opening statements: Done by the prosecutor, or plaintiff first, and then done by the defense as well. In these statements, both sides will provide the necessary basic information on what is to be tried.
2. Direct examination: This is done by the prosecutor to a witness first, and it will also be done by the defense at a later time.
3. Cross-Examination: Done by the defense and then carried out by the prosecutor.
4. Re-direct examination: This process allows the side who called the witness to re-direct the previous examination of the witness with new questions done to the person. It will usually happen first for the prosecutor, and then the defense, when the witness is called by the defense party.
5. Recross examination: Same as above. The party whose witness is not being questioned on the stand, can re-address the witness and recross questions.
6. Prosecution´s case: The moment when a summary of what has been shown, talked about and proven regarding an accusation, is done by the prosecution.
7. Defense´s case: The defense does the same as the prosecution, but in favor of creating a reasonable doubt against the proof provided by the prosecution.
8. Closing arguments: Both sides give their own conclusions and seek to sway the jury in favor of their case, with persuasive arguments and bring closure to all the data that has been provided during the case.
9. Charge to the Jury: The judge hands the case over for deliveration to the jury with instructions so that a decision can be reached.
These are in general, the steps that are taken during a trial.
