Michael is on trial for 5 charges of first degree murder and the prosecutor is seeking the death penalty. Michael is 18 years old and is accused of killing his entire family, including his mother, step-father, and two younger sisters, in a drug induced fit. He also killed the police officer who responded to the house after the neighbor called 911. This is the first time Michael has been arrested.
-His attorneys then explain that if the jury finds him guilty at the first phase of the capital trial they will then determine whether he will be sentenced to death or life in prison. This second phase is known as:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The second phase of the capital trial where the jury determines whether the defendant will be sentenced to death or life in prison is known as the punishment phase. Therefore, D) punishment phase is the correct choice. A) death phase and C) execution phase are not accurate terms used in the capital trial process. B) guilt/innocence phase refers to the first phase of the trial where the jury determines the defendant's guilt or innocence.

Michael Is on Trial for 5 Charges of First Degree