Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: criminal complaint
A trial is when people go to court to argue about something. They show evidence to prove their point and a judge decides who is right.
Definition: A trial is a legal process where a judge or jury listens to evidence and arguments presented by both sides in a case, and then makes a decision based on the law and the facts presented.
Example: A criminal trial is a type of trial where the government accuses someone of committing a crime. The prosecution presents evidence and arguments to prove that the defendant is guilty, while the defense presents evidence and arguments to prove that the defendant is innocent.
Explanation: In a trial, both sides have the opportunity to present their case and evidence to a judge or jury. The judge or jury then weighs the evidence and arguments presented and makes a decision based on the law and the facts. The example of a criminal trial illustrates this process, where the prosecution and defense present their cases and the judge or jury decides whether the defendant is guilty or innocent.