Our criminal justice system can be overwhelming and frightening. If you face the possibility of being accused of a crime, contact our office as early in the process as possible, preferably even before questioning or investigation by the police.
Due Process
Our criminal justice system is complex, both conceptually and procedurally. To ensure the fairness of the proceedings, each court system has its own rules of criminal procedure that govern the actions of all players: police, defense lawyers, prosecutors, judges and juries. The US Constitution requires that criminal defendants be accorded due process of law Due process requires such things as reasonable notice of proceedings and fair hearings when a person is facing substantial negative consequences, such as incarceration.
Stages of a Criminal Case
Investigation: During the investigation of a crime, the police review the facts, interview witnesses and gather evidence against suspect(s). Once the police have enough evidence, they can ask a judge to sign an arrest warrant for a suspect.
Plea Bargaining: Sometimes a criminal defendant and the prosecution can negotiate an agreement that resolves the criminal matter. Usually, the prosecutor agrees to reduce a charge, drop some of multiple charges or recommend a more lenient sentence in exchange for the defendant's guilty plea, often to a lesser offense. A seasoned criminal defense attorney can be a real advantage to a criminal defendant throughout the plea-bargaining process.
Trial and Sentencing: At trial, the prosecutor and defense attorney will give opening and closing statements, introduce evidence and question witnesses. If the defendant is acquitted, the case is over. If a defendant is found guilty, the court will impose a sentence, which may include incarceration, fines, court costs, restitution and probation. Also, before the sentence is issued, the defendant has the right to allocution, which is when the defendant can address the judge directly. It may be a chance for the defendant to apologize, show remorse or explain his or her actions.
Arrest and Bail: After being arrested, a suspect will go before the judge, who will either set bail or decline to set any bail so that the suspect must remain in jail until the trial. Bail is an amount of money that the suspect must post so that he or she can get out of jail. If, however, the suspect doesn't show up or flees, the court will keep the money and issue an arrest warrant.
Arraignment: The accused first appears before the judge at an arraignment. At this proceeding, the judge informs the accused of the criminal charges against him or her, determines whether to modify the initial amount of bail and sets a schedule for future court dates.
Conclusion
To better protect yourself throughout your involvement with the criminal justice system, consult with an informed, knowledgeable criminal defense attorney like one from Law Office of Gregory D. Curtis P.A. in Miami, Florida. We will work hard on your behalf to see that protections afforded criminal defendants are preserved for you.
