Trials in the District and Supreme Courts are before a judge and jury, although both the accused and the prosecutor can apply for the case to be tried by a judge only.

The prosecution is responsible for proving beyond reasonable doubt that the accused committed the offence/s they are charged with.

The victim/s and other witnesses for the prosecution give their evidence, and are cross-examined by the defence

Witnesses for the defence then give their evidence, and are cross-examined by the prosecution.

The witnesses for the defence then each give their evidence-in-chief and are cross-examined by the prosecution. The defence may then re-examine the witnesses and the judge may ask them some questions. The accused does not have to give evidence during the trial but if they do it will be as a witness for the defence.

The jury leaves the courtroom to decide on the verdict.

The jury members go into another room to consider their verdict. When they have all reached the same decision, they come back to the courtroom.

If the judge or jury finds the accused is not guilty, the accused is free to leave the court. This is called an acquittal, and cannot be appealed.