What stage follows the State's case in a court trial?

In a court trial, after the State has presented its case, which involves the prosecution laying out its evidence and arguments, the next stage is the defense's case. During this phase, the defense is given the opportunity to present its own evidence, call witnesses, and challenge the evidence put forth by the State. The defense may also aim to create reasonable doubt regarding the prosecution's arguments, potentially leading to an acquittal for the defendant.

This stage is crucial as it allows the defense to advocate for their client, presenting a counter-narrative or offering explanations for the prosecution's claims. It serves as a fundamental part of the adversarial system of justice, ensuring that both sides of the case are heard before any conclusions are drawn.