Why do most criminal trials end in guilty verdicts?
Why do most criminal trials end in guilty verdicts? Tim Cella Former Paralegal at Ascent Law (2018–2021) This is a good question. You know, before a prosecutor brings charges against someone, they “screen” the case to make sure that there is sufficient evidence to convict the defendant; otherwise, it’s not with the time and effort to bring charges. So if there isn’t sufficient evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, charges are never brought. This is because the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and it is their responsibility to present enough evidence to establish guilt. You’ve probably heard that the standard of proof in criminal trials is higher than in civil trials, as the consequences of a guilty verdict may involve incarceration and other serious penalties. I also think that the majority of criminal cases never go to trial. They are resolved through plea bargains, whereby the defendant agrees to plead gui...