Stages of the proceedings

Speech in favour of the 'partie civile'

When there is a ‘partie civile’, their lawyer makes his speech first, because the defence lawyer must have the last word. The lawyer representing the ‘partie civile’ argues in favour of a guilty verdict. If the accused is found guilty, the ‘parties civiles’ can ask for monetary compensation for damages at a second hearing, which takes place after the criminal hearing, and without a jury. If the accused is declared guilty, the partie(s) civile(s) can demand monetary compensation for damages in a second hearing, which will take place after the trial and without a jury.