Judge Juan Merchan has informed the jury of the procedure for closing arguments in the ongoing trial. According to Judge Merchan, the defense counsel will present their closing arguments first, followed by the prosecutor.
During his address to the jury, Judge Merchan emphasized that under the law, the defense counsel is required to sum up their case before the prosecutor has the opportunity to present their closing arguments. Additionally, Judge Merchan made it clear that once the closing arguments are concluded, the lawyers will not be permitted to speak to the jury further.
This procedural guideline ensures that both sides have the opportunity to make their final statements to the jury in an organized and fair manner. By adhering to this protocol, the court aims to uphold the principles of justice and provide a structured framework for the presentation of closing arguments.
The jury members were reminded of their crucial role in carefully considering the evidence presented throughout the trial and deliberating on their verdict based on the facts and arguments presented by both the defense and the prosecution.
As the trial progresses towards its conclusion, the closing arguments will serve as a pivotal moment for both the defense and the prosecution to make their final appeals to the jury and reinforce their respective positions in the case.
With Judge Merchan's clear instructions on the closing arguments procedure, the jury is now prepared for this important phase of the trial as they approach the decision-making stage in the legal proceedings.