The stage of the criminal justice process that is an adversarial process, pitting the prosecution against the defense, is the trial stage. During a trial, both sides present their arguments and evidence to a judge or jury, with the goal of persuading them of their respective positions. The prosecution is responsible for proving the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, while the defense seeks to challenge the evidence and establish their client's innocence or mitigate the charges.
This adversarial system is essential in ensuring a fair and just outcome, as it allows for a thorough examination of the facts and mitigates the risk of wrongful convictions. The fundamental principle of "innocent until proven guilty" is upheld throughout the trial, ensuring that the burden of proof remains on the prosecution.