Being charged with a crime is a serious and overwhelming experience, but knowing the legal process can help you navigate it with more confidence. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect:
Arrest and Booking: After an arrest, you will be taken to a police station for booking. This process involves taking your fingerprints, photographs, and basic information. You may be held in custody or released on bail, depending on the severity of the charges and your criminal history.
Preliminary Hearing: This is your first court appearance, where the judge will inform you of the charges against you and your legal rights. At this stage, you can enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If your attorney finds flaws in the evidence or arrest procedure, they may try to have the charges reduced or dismissed at this point.
Arraignment: The arraignment is when formal charges are read, and a trial date is set. Your attorney will begin preparing your defense by reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and filing pre-trial motions. Depending on the case, your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to reach a plea agreement or reduce the charges.
Pre-Trial Motions: Pre-trial motions are legal arguments made to the judge, often asking to suppress evidence that was illegally obtained, dismiss certain charges, or change the venue of the trial. These motions can significantly shape the direction of your case.
Trial or Plea Bargain: If your case goes to trial, both sides will present evidence, call witnesses, and make arguments. The judge or jury will then determine guilt. If a plea bargain is negotiated, you may agree to plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for reduced penalties.
Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will issue a sentence based on the severity of the crime and other factors, such as your criminal history. Sentences can range from fines and probation to jail time.
At The McShane Firm, we are committed to guiding you through each step of this process. From the initial arrest to trial, we fight to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome. Criminal charges can have life-changing consequences, so having an experienced legal team on your side is critical. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
