When facing criminal charges, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to expect during the legal process. Understanding the steps involved in a criminal case can help ease some of the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with being accused of a crime.
The first step in a criminal case is usually the arrest. This may happen at the scene of the alleged crime or after an investigation has taken place. If you are arrested, you will be taken into custody and booked at a police station. During booking, your personal information will be recorded, and you may be fingerprinted and photographed.
After being booked, you will have a court appearance known as an arraignment. At this hearing, you will be informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea – guilty, not guilty, or no contest. It is important to have legal representation at this stage to ensure that your rights are protected.
Following the arraignment, there may be pretrial hearings where motions are filed by both sides and evidence is presented. This is also when plea negotiations may take place between your criminal justice attorney near me and the prosecutor. If no agreement is reached, the case will proceed to trial.
During a criminal trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments before a judge or jury. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime with which you are charged. Your defense attorney will work to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution and present any witnesses or evidence on your behalf.
If you are found not guilty at trial, your case ends there – unless there are grounds for an appeal. However, if you are convicted of a crime, there will be sentencing proceedings where punishment is determined.
The severity of punishment can vary depending on factors such as the nature of the crime, any prior criminal record you may have, and whether aggravating circumstances were present during commission of offense.
Bruno Law Offices
301 W Green St, Urbana, IL, 61801
(217) 328-6000
