A trial is a formal legal proceeding that follows established rules of evidence and operates as an adversary process in court overseen by a judge or jury. It is a crucial part of the criminal or civil justice system and where the truth emerges, rights are protected, and law evolves. It is also a crucible of sorts, where disputes are sorted out and injustices righted.

Trials are designed to be thorough and comprehensive. They usually start with jury selection (if applicable). Next, attorneys give opening statements to introduce their case to the judge and/or jury. Afterward, they present their evidence by calling witnesses to testify under oath. Each party then has an opportunity to question the witness during a process called direct examination. After each witness is questioned by the plaintiff’s or defendant’s attorney, that same witness can be cross examined by the opposing counsel. This is meant to poke holes in the testimony or discredit the witness’ credibility.

Expert witnesses may be called to provide testimony on specialized subjects. Physical objects and documents can also be used to support a case as well. In some cases, attorneys may file motions to limit or disallow certain pieces of evidence. Occasionally, judges must consider other procedural and preliminary matters during a trial, such as when an attorney objects to a question that is not relevant to the case at hand or an objection that a witness is discussing irrelevant facts.