Colorado POST Practice Exam

What is typically included in the State's case during a trial?

1. Call of witnesses for the defense

2. Presentation of evidence against the defendant

3. Jury instructions

4. Closing arguments from the defense

The correct answer is: Presentation of evidence against the defendant

The State's case during a trial primarily consists of the presentation of evidence against the defendant. This includes various forms of evidence such as witness testimony, physical evidence, and documents that collectively aim to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution, representing the State, has the burden of establishing a factual basis for the case against the defendant, which is critical for a conviction. This process is essential in ensuring that the judicial system is fair and that the defendant is given an opportunity to challenge the evidence presented. Other options, while important components of a trial, do not represent what is included in the State's case. For instance, calling witnesses for the defense pertains to the defendant’s strategy rather than the State’s case itself. Similarly, jury instructions are provided by the judge and help the jury understand the legal standards and how to apply the law to the evidence, but they do not form part of the evidence presented by the State. Closing arguments from the defense summarize the points made during the trial from the defense perspective and also do not contribute to the prosecution's case. Thus, the correct focus of what is typically included in the State's case is the presentation of evidence against the defendant.