Guilty of culpable homicide (manslaughter)
If Judge Masipa finds that Pistorius did not intend to kill Ms Steenkamp, but did so by firing recklessly, he would be acquitted of murder, but may face a charge of culpable homicide (manslaughter). This focuses on negligence rather than intent, and so carries a lesser sentence of five years, which can be increased or decreased depending on the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Guilty of discharging firearms in public
Pistorius is also charged with two unrelated charges of discharging a firearm in public - once in restaurant in 2013, and once through a car sun roof in 2012. The athlete could be sentenced to five years in prison on each count, however Judge Masipa would be far more likely to impose a non custodial sentence such as a fine.
Guilty of illegal possession of ammunition
Pistorius has admitted to being in possession of ammunition for an unlicensed firearm. This could carry a sentence of 15 years in prison.
Not guilty on all charges
If Judge Masipa accepts that Pistorius had no intention to kill and acted in self-defence - formally known as 'putative private defence' - and was not guilty of the other three charges that have been brought against him, he would leave the court a free man.
Sentencing and appeal
If there is a conviction, a second trial will begin with the prosecutors and defence having the chance to present further witnesses - from family members to psychiatrists - before Judge Masipa decides if and how long Pistorius goes to prison.
After a sentence is delivered, Pistorius will be able to appeal both the conviction and the sentence.
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- Independent with additional reporting by AP
