Every trial has specific stages necessary for the effective investigation of the case. They can be analyzed by using the movie My cousin Vinny. Thus, the selection of the jury is the choice of people who will serve on a jury during the process (Melsheimer & Smith, 2017). This process is not shown in the movie as viewers see the trial itself. The next phase is opening statements by the prosecution and defense, which allows both parties to address the jury (Melsheimer & Smith, 2017). In the film, prosecutor Trotter and Vinny Gambini’s initial words can be viewed as this stage (Lynn, 1992). Presentation of the prosecution’s evidence and witness is the phase when the major arguments are presented to the jury (Melsheimer & Smith, 2017). Prosecutor Trotter asks the eyewitness who saw the crime through the window is an example of how this stage occurs in the trial.
Presentation of the defense evidence and witness is another stage of the trial process. It allows the defense to present its arguments. Thus, Gambini’s refusal to accept Bill and Stan’s guilt and outlining the main witness can be an example of this stage (Lynn, 1992). At the same time, the defenders present the rebuttal witness, asking Lisa to speak about tire marks and refute the arguments provided by the prosecution (Lynn, 1992). It helps to introduce a new perspective on the case. Closing arguments by each side is the final address to the jury summarizing the evidence of all parties. In the discussed movie, the closing arguments are presented by the sheriff, who outlines that the car and the gun were found in another place (Lynn, 1992). The instruction of the jury by the judge phase implies that the jury is informed about relevant laws. In the film, this phase is not shown, and the viewers see the final decision by the jury, which implies dismissing all charges.
References
Lynn, J. (1992). My cousin Vinny [Film]. 20th Century Fox.
Melsheimer, T., & Smith, C. (2017). On the jury trial: Principles and practices for effective advocacy. University of North Texas Press.