THE STEPS TO BE OBSERVED in the course of a trial may be summarized as
follows:
(1) The complaints is drawn up and signed by the accuser and attested
by the Bishop. (Fom No. 1). (2) The summons is issued, in which a reasonable
time is given for the accused to appear for trial. (Form No. 2). (3) When ready
for trial, the court is opened with prayer. (4) The complaint is read and the
accused is asked to plead, if his written answer is not already filed. (5) If
he plead “guilty,” judgment is rendered. (6) If he plead “not guilty,” the
trial goes on. (7) Witnesses are examined to establish the truth of the charge.
(8) Then witnesses are examined for the defense, and the accused may also
testify in his own behalf. (9) The evidence of each witness is taken in writing
by the clerk. (Form No. 3). (10) The testimony is read to the witness, errors
corrected, then the witness signs it. (11) After all evidence is given, the
Bishopric render their decision. (12) The decision is written on a blank
prepared for that purpose. (Form no. 4). (13) The accused should receive a copy
of the decision. (12) The decision is written on a blank prepared for that
purpose. (Form No. 4). (13) The accused should receive a copy of the decision.
(14) If the accused holds the Melchizedek Priesthood, and the Bishop’s Court recommended
that he be excommunicated, a report is made at once to the High Council. (Form
No. 5). (15) All papers entered in their consecutive order in a book kept for
that purpose, make a complete record of the case. (Joseph B. Keeler, The
Lesser Priesthood and Notes on Church Government: Also a Concordance of the
Doctrine and Covenants, for the Use of Church Schools and Priesthood Quorums [3d
ed.; Salt Lake City: Deseret News Press, 1929], 171-72; the book was originally published in 1904)
