There are two basic types of trials: criminal and civil. In a criminal trial, a person (defendant) is charged by the People with breaking the laws governing permissible conduct. In order to convict, the People must prove the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. A juror who harbors a reasonable doubt must not vote to convict.
In a civil trial a person or party (the plaintiff) brings a lawsuit against another person or party (the defendant), usually to recover monetary damages. A civil suit can have more than two parties, and the jury may be called on to answer several questions.
The burden of proof is not the same for civil cases as for criminal cases. In civil cases, the plaintiff must prove his case by a preponderance of evidence or by clear and convincing evidence. Always listen carefully when the judge explains the burden of proof.
The judge and the lawyers will explain the trial process to you. You should listen to them carefully, because it is your responsibility to deliberate according to the law.
Occasionally, the lawyers will make remarks, or testimony will be given, which the judge strikes from the record. You must disregard all such information as if you had never heard it. You may not take notes on testimony, or write at all during the trial. Also, you may not question the witnesses.