Final answer:
If convicted in an impeachment trial, a government official is removed from office and may be barred from holding any future federal office. Further legal consequences would be handled through the regular judicial system, not by the Senate.
Step-by-step explanation:
Consequences of Conviction in an Impeachment Trial
When the Senate convicts a government official in an impeachment trial, certain outcomes are stipulated specifically in the United States Constitution. If convicted, the individual is immediately removed from office. Additionally, the Senate may vote to disqualify the individual from holding future federal offices. This means they cannot serve in any governmental capacity, including the presidency. It is important to understand that the Senate does not have the authority to impose criminal penalties directly. For any further legal consequences beyond removal and disqualification, the individual would need to be tried in the regular judicial system, where they could potentially face criminal or civil charges.
Throughout history, several impeachment proceedings have occurred against presidents, including Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and most recently, Donald Trump. Nonetheless, none have been removed from office through this process. Senators serve as the jury for an impeachment trial, and a two-thirds majority is required to convict. Should impeachment charges relate to treason, it is noteworthy that no person in the United States has ever been executed for this crime, despite it being a potential penalty.