Can I choose to have my defense attorney present his case first?

Can I choose to have my defense attorney present his case first?

The prosecutor always goes first because they have the burden of proof. The defense doesn't have to prove anything. Once the prosecution has presented their case the defense may decide nothing further needs to be said; if the prosecutor hasn't proven his case, the defense can ask the judge whether there is enough to go to the jury, and the judge then decides. The defense may or may not present a defense - though it usually does. Sometimes that may be the defendent testifying and often it will be other witnesses, but this defense will always come after the prosecution.