Legal Definitions - two-stage trial

A two-stage trial is a type of trial that is divided into two stages, such as for guilt and punishment or for liability and damages. It is also known as a bifurcated trial. In the first stage, the court determines one issue, and in the second stage, it determines another issue.

In a criminal case, a two-stage trial may involve a first stage where the court determines whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty, and a second stage where the court determines the appropriate punishment if the defendant is found guilty. In a civil case, a two-stage trial may involve a first stage where the court determines liability, and a second stage where the court determines the amount of damages to be awarded.

These examples illustrate how a two-stage trial is used to simplify complex cases by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable parts.