Colorado POST Practice Exam

In a courtroom trial, what comes last in the typical order of operations?

1. Jury selection

2. Defendant’s case

3. Jury instruction

4. Closing statement

The correct answer is: Closing statement

In a courtroom trial, the last step in the typical order of operations is the closing statement. This part of the trial occurs after all evidence has been presented, including both the prosecution's and the defendant's cases. The closing statement provides both sides with the opportunity to summarize their arguments, highlight key evidence, and persuade the jury to adopt their interpretation of the facts. This step is crucial because it is the final chance for each party to address the jury before deliberations begin on a verdict. Closing statements often aim to reinforce the jury's memory of the case presented and emphasize the strengths of each side's argument while attempting to dismantle the opponent's case. The other options, such as jury selection, the defendant’s case, and jury instruction, occur earlier in the trial process. Jury selection happens at the beginning, establishing which jurors will hear the case, while the defendant's case involves presenting evidence and witnesses after the prosecution has presented its case. Jury instruction takes place before the jury deliberates, guiding jurors on how to consider the law and apply it to the evidence they've heard.