What happens following the jury's deliberation in a criminal trial?

Following the jury's deliberation in a criminal trial, the primary outcome is that the jury renders a verdict. This is a crucial step in the judicial process, marking the conclusion of the jury's role in the trial. After examining the evidence presented during the trial, the jurors come together to discuss their findings and ultimately reach a decision regarding the defendant's guilt or innocence.

The verdict they render reflects the collective opinion of the jurors based on their interpretation of the law and the facts presented. A unanimous verdict is typically required in criminal cases, meaning all jurors must agree on the decision.

While it may seem that a jury could leave the courtroom or request further evidence, these actions would generally not occur immediately after deliberation. Sentencing discussions typically happen after a guilty verdict has been reached, and the judge determines the appropriate sentence in a separate phase. Hence, the act of rendering a verdict is a critical and definitive moment that signifies the culmination of the jury’s responsibilities.