Making a Decision

Last Reviewed: April 2022 Reviewed by: JES Download

After hearing all the evidence and the witnesses, the jury begins their important job of deliberating. To deliberate means to carefully consider. This is the important work of making a decision in the case. Once all the evidence and closing arguments have been heard, the trial judge will give the jurors instructions on the law in the form of a jury charge.

From there, jurors will deliberate in a room designated by the sheriffs, and will stay together until a verdict is reached. If the jurors cannot come to a decision by the evening, accommodation and meals will be provided for the jurors.

The jury can ask the trial judge questions if required during their deliberations. Any questions will be asked in the courtroom in front of the Crown and the defence. 

If the jury cannot come to a decision, they may inform the trial judge. The trial judge may ask them to try again. If the jury still cannot come to a decision, the trial judge will order a new trial and the case will start over at a later date with a new jury.

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