Hunter Biden trial: Jury begins deliberations in federal gun case
Hunter Biden did not take the stand during the one-week trial held in the Biden hometown of Wilmington, Delaware.
Read more at Hindustan Times
Drugs, alcohol and a suspicious gun: Inside Hunter Biden's trial
The BBC's Bernd Debusmann Jr reports from court on what's at stake for the US president's son.
Read more at BBC News
The trial - 10 things to know with detail
The trial is a formal examination of evidence in a court of law to determine the guilt or innocence of a defendant accused of a crime. It is a crucial part of the criminal justice system.
The trial process begins with the selection of a jury, who are tasked with listening to the evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense and ultimately deciding the verdict.
The prosecution, represented by a government attorney, presents evidence and witnesses to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense, represented by the defendant's attorney, has the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses and present their own evidence and witnesses to refute the prosecution's case.
Both sides make opening statements at the beginning of the trial, outlining their arguments and what they believe the evidence will show. Closing arguments are made at the end of the trial, summarizing the evidence and persuading the jury to reach a verdict in their favor.
The trial is presided over by a judge, who ensures that the proceedings are conducted fairly and in accordance with the law. The judge also rules on objections raised by the attorneys and makes decisions on legal issues that arise during the trial.
The defendant has the right to remain silent and not testify at their trial. This is known as the right against self-incrimination, and it is protected by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The burden of proof in a criminal trial rests with the prosecution, who must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the jury has any reasonable doubt about the defendant's guilt, they must acquit the defendant.
During the trial, both sides have the opportunity to present evidence, including witness testimony, physical evidence, and expert testimony. The jury evaluates the credibility of the witnesses and the weight of the evidence in reaching their verdict.
The trial concludes with the jury deliberating in private to reach a verdict. The jury must reach a unanimous decision in a criminal trial to convict or acquit the defendant.
If the defendant is found guilty, they may be sentenced by the judge at a separate sentencing hearing. If the defendant is found not guilty, they are released from custody and the case is closed.