Colorado POST Practice Exam

Which phase directly precedes the jury's deliberation?

1. Opening statement

2. State's case

3. Closing statement

4. Defendant's case

The correct answer is: Closing statement

The jury's deliberation follows the closing statements made by both the prosecution and the defense. During this phase, each party summarizes their arguments and presents the pivotal points of their case to the jury. The purpose of the closing statements is to reinforce the evidence and persuade the jury to arrive at a particular conclusion based on the information presented throughout the trial. After these statements, the jury is then instructed to discuss the evidence presented and come to a verdict, marking the commencement of their deliberation. This sequence is crucial as it encapsulates the entire trial's arguments into final remarks, ensuring the jury is fully informed before making their decision.