Jury Duty — What to Expect During the Trial

You’ve made it through selection and you’re on the jury. You’ve been given a badge identifying you as a juror. The judge will instruct you not to discuss the case with anyone, not to do your own research, and not to visit the scene. Now the trial begins.

Opening Statements

Each side gives an opening statement — a roadmap of what they intend to prove. This is not evidence. It’s each lawyer’s preview of their case. The plaintiff goes first, followed by the defense.

The Evidence

The plaintiff presents their case first — witnesses, documents, photographs, expert testimony. Each witness is examined by the side that called them (direct examination) and then questioned by the opposing side (cross-examination). Pay attention to the witnesses’ demeanor and credibility. Do they seem honest? Are they consistent? Do they have a reason to shade the truth?

After the plaintiff rests, the defense presents their case using the same format. The plaintiff may then present rebuttal evidence.

Your Role

Listen carefully. Take notes if allowed (most Arizona courts permit it). Some courts allow jurors to submit written questions for witnesses — the judge will screen them and ask the appropriate ones. Don’t discuss the case with fellow jurors until deliberations — you need to hear all the evidence before forming opinions.

Closing Arguments

After all evidence is presented, each side gives closing arguments. This is where the lawyers tie everything together and argue why the evidence supports their position. Then the judge reads the jury instructions and you begin deliberations.