The process of a criminal trial starts when an individual is arrested, or charges are filed for a warrant. Within 2 to 48 hours of initial arrest, the defendant must have his informal arraignment. During this time, the defendant is informed of the charges against him. If the defendant has not already been "miranda-ized", he will be informed of his rights. Even if this has already taken place, he will be informed again of his right to counsel. If the charge is not murder, bail will be set. If the charge is for murder, bail may be set, at the discretion of the judge. The defendant will then be notified of when and where to appear next, then will be allowed to leave if bail has been set, or he will be remanded into custody. 

The next step is the preliminary hearing, if the case is on the state level. This takes place usually 7 to 10 days after the informal arraignment. The defendant goes before a district justice, whom determines if the case merits going any farther. The prosecution must prove by a prima facie case that the charges are valid. The prosecution will call witnesses and show evidence. Typically the defense will not. 

If the case is to be remanded to federal court, there is not a preliminary hearing. Instead, the defendant goes before a grand jury. The grand jury is made up of 23 citizens. Grand jury hearings are private. The public may not attend, nor may reporters be present. In fact, the defendant’s lawyer may not even be present. However, the defendant may leave the courtroom to confer with his attorney when he feels the need. Unlike actual trials, guilt may be inferred by the defendant exercising his right not to testify. 

Within the next 30 days, the formal arraignment takes place. The filing of Informations, which is a list of those charges accepted in the preliminary trial, are recorded. The defendant may then plead for each charge. Typically, defendants plead not guilty, or stand mute. 

After 30 more days pass, the pre-trial conference is held. Both the defense and prosecuting lawyers meet with the Judge. While pre-trial motions should have already been filed, most lawyers wait until now to file them. The judge typically allows this to avoid the possibility of an appeal.

This leads to the guilt phase, assuming the defendant decided not to plead “not guilty” during the formal arraignment. Pleas may be open, meaning they have no involvement from the prosecution, or they may be negotiated. If the defense negotiates a plea with the prosecution, the judge must approve it as well. If the defendant pleads 'Guilty', he is admitting to factual guilt. The defendant may also plea 'nolo contendre' which means no contest. This means the defendant will accept any sentence handed down, but does not admit factual guilt. It is no different than a guilty plea for this hearing, but prevents a later trial from using a guilty plea against him. Further, the defendant may also plead conditionally, stating he will plead guilty but wishes to keep certain appeal rights he would usually lose. Finally, the last guilt type please is that of an Alford plea. In an Alford plea the defendant is pleading guilty, but asserting factual innocence. This happens when a defendant says he is innocent, but will plead guilty to a lesser charge to avoid the possibility of a death sentence. 

If the defendant had not pleaded guilty, and instead stated he was not guilty, the case would move onto the trial phase. First a jury must be selected. The process of jury selection is known as the Voir Dire. The group from who are eligible to be picked to serve on the jury is known as the Venire. The jury may be kept sequestered, meaning they are isolated from the media while the trial takes place to keep them impartial.  

At the next step, the judge will give opening instructions to the jury. This step is optional. However, it usually takes place, since most jurors will not be experts on the law and will need concepts explained. 

Next, the opening statements are heard. The point of the opening statements are for the attorneys to form a relationship with the jury, as well as establish credibility. The prosecution goes first, followed by the defense. 

The case-in-chief follows. This is the evidentiary section of the trial. The prosecution will call their witnesses, one at a time. For each witness, the prosecution will perform a direct examination. The attorney will attempt to establish the facts of the case with these witnesses, as well as using their testimony to being in physical evidence. During direct examination, the witness may not be led. After the prosecution is done with one of its witnesses, the defense may cross-examine. He will attempt to challenge the credibility of the witness. During a cross-examination, leading the witness is allowed. At this point, the prosecution may re-direct, to try to clear up any issues with the witness the defense may have created. Of course, then the defense may re-cross. This can go on endlessly until both sides are done with a witness, and the next is called. 

After the prosecution rests, the jury is excused. At this point, the lawyers will argue over evidence with the judge, and usually the defense will ask for a motion of demurrer. This is a motion to have the case dismissed due to a lack of evidence. If the judge accepts the motion, the defendant is held as not guilty. If the judge does not accept the motion, the Defense attorney may begin his case. He will then call his witnesses, and directly examine them. The rolls of the lawyers have reversed, with the defense directly examining, and the prosecution in the roll of cross-examining. 

Once the defense rests, the prosecution will then start its rebuttal. The purpose of this is to comment on evidence used by the defense. For example, if the defense calls a witness to establish an alibi, during rebuttal the prosecution may have a witness testify that the alibi is not true. The defense may then have a surrebuttal, to further argue points. It can go on back and forth infinitely until both sides are satisfied. 

Once both sides have finished, closing statements begin. On the state level, the defense goes first, and then the prosecution gives its closing statements. For federal courts, the prosecution gives their statements, followed by the defense, and then the prosecution may give another statement. 

The judge will then give closing instructions to the jury on how to proceed. The jury will come back with a verdict once a unanimous 12 to 1 decision is reached. The judge will poll the jury, to verify each juror has come to the same decision. If the verdict is not guilty, the defendant is free to go. If he is found guilty, and he is sentenced to serve time, he will be remanded into custody.

Process of a Criminal Case

What is an Arraignment

An arraignment is where the defendant is read specific charges against him. It is the first step in the criminal process. All arraignments are conducted after the suspect is arrested and booked by law enforcement.

What Happens to the Defendant at the Arraignment?

The arraignment is the time where the judge will ask if the person appearing is the person identified in the charges. In addition, the judge will ask whether the defendant will plead not guilty. It is highly unusual that a defendant would plead guilty at the arraignment.

At an arraignment:

1. The defendant will be provided with written charges.
2. The defendant will be asked to state his identity.
3. The defendant is entitled to counsel.
4. If charged with a misdemeanor, the defendant is required to reply to the written charges with a plea of either guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest). If charged with a felony, the defendant may or may not be required to reply with a plea at the initial arraignment.
5. In a misdemeanor case, the judge will set the defendant's tentative appearance schedule. In a felony case, the judge will set the defendant's tentative preliminary hearing.
6. Bail is set. The defendant has a right to argue for a bail reduction.
7. The discovery process begins. Discovery at the arraignment usually consists of a police report and a complaint. Some states do not provide discovery until after the preliminary hearing or indictment.
8. If the defendant pleads guilty at the arraignment, the judge may sentence the defendant at that time.

Differences Between Misdemeanors and Felonies

Generally, a misdemeanor crime is punishable by up to one year in county jail. Misdemeanor trials are held in the state's lower court, sometimes referred to as Municipal Court.

A felony crime is punishable by one year or more in state prison or a penitentiary. Felonies begin in the state's lower court system but may move up to the state Superior Court, or higher court.

The misdemeanor and felony arraignment processes are virtually identical to one another with one exception. In the misdemeanor arraignment process, a pre-trial in Municipal Court is the next step following arraignment. In the felony arraignment process, the next step is a pre-preliminary hearing or a preliminary hearing. Once the preliminary hearing is completed, a trial date is established.

It is recommended that the defendant obtain legal representation prior to arraignment. A public defender may have little time to review the case before arraignment, or may not even be assigned the case until arraignment. Preparation is key to a successful defense. A private attorney can meet with the defendant prior to arraignment, review the case, and provide the defendant with step-by-step options prior to the arraignment process.

Misdemeanor: The Arraignment To Appeals Process

Arraignment

The defendant may plead guilty, not guilty or no contest. If the defendant pleads guilty or no contest, he/she can expect to be sentenced. Very few cases are dismissed at arraignment. Once the arraignment is completed, the defendant prepares for trial in Municipal Court.

Pre-Trial Conference

This involves a meeting between prosecution and defense. Topics discussed include plea bargain opportunities, pretrial motions and other factors in the case, such as the defendant's character and prior criminal history.

Municipal Court Trial

Each state has different rules for trials in Municipal Court. Some states provide the right to choose between a trial by judge or jury. Others do not allow the defendant a jury trial in misdemeanor cases.

Sentencing

The judge determines the length and type of punishment at a sentencing hearing. Witnesses are generally allowed to speak, requesting either a lighter or heavier sentence. The defendant may make a statement to the court. In addition, in some jurisdictions the court may ask for a report from the probation department prior to sentencing the defendant.

Appeals

After a defendant has been found guilty by way of trial, the defense attorney may request a higher court to review specifically identified errors in procedure with the possibility of changing the lower court's decision. It is important to recognize that the appeals process may only begin after the defendant has received the final verdict, and been sentenced.

Once the trial has been completed, the facts have been decided. They cannot be changed by an appellate court. The appeals process reviews defects in procedure of the trial. If the defense attorney can identify substantial improper procedural issues, he may be able to win the appeal. Note that the timeline of the appeals process varies from state-to-state.

Some post conviction tactics to get relief for the defendant include:

• Motion for Acquittal
• Motion For New Trial
• Motion For New Sentencing
• Appeal To Appellate Court
• Appeal

Felony: The Arraignment to Appeals Process

Arraignment

The arraignment in a felony is identical to that in a misdemeanor case. Bail and identity are established, charges are ascertained and the attorney of record is confirmed. Very few cases are dismissed at arraignment.

Pre-Preliminary Hearing

This involves a meeting between prosecution and defense. Topics discussed in most states include plea bargain opportunities, strengths and weaknesses of the prosecutions case, and other factors, such as the defendant's character and past history.

Preliminary Hearing

At the preliminary hearing the judge determines whether sufficient evidence exists to send the case to the upper court for trial. The judge: 1) Decides whether there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed; 2) Decides whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed the crime.

Superior Court Arraignment

The defendant is arraigned and pleads guilty, not guilty or no contest. At the arraignment, the identity of the defendant is confirmed, bail is established, charges are ascertained and an attorney of record is confirmed.

Pre-Trial Conference

The pre-trial conference is a formal setting where plea bargaining occurs. The prosecution may offer alternative sentencing. The charge may be changed to a lesser charge. The number of felony counts may be dropped. A lesser punishment for the same charge may be agreed upon.

Trial

A jury trial is the fact finding phase of the case. It is the in-court examination and resolution of a criminal case. At the trial a decision will be reached as to the innocence or guilt of the defendant. Unlike a plea-bargained settlement which completes the case prior to trial, a trial introduces risk for both the prosecution and defense. Neither side knows which side will win. The trial begins with the prosecution's opening statement. The defense attorney may also present an opening statement at this time. The prosecution presents his case to support the charges and then rests. The defense presents his case to refute the charges and then rests. Closing arguments by both the prosecution and defense conclude the presentation part of the trial. The jury then deliberates innocence and guilt.

In a trial, expect the following to occur:

1. Jury selection
2. Opening statements presented by the prosecution and the defense
3. The prosecution presents their case
4. The defense cross examines prosecution witnesses
5. The defense presents their case
6. The prosecution cross examines the defense witnesses
7. Closing arguments are presented by both the prosecution and the defense
8. The prosecution, defense attorney and judge decide on specific instructions to the jury
9. The judge instructs the jury on rules
10. The jury deliberates
11. The jury submits their verdict

Sentencing

The judge determines the length and type of punishment at a sentencing hearing. Witnesses are generally allowed to speak, requesting either a lighter or stiffer sentence. The defendant may make a statement to the court.

At sentencing:

1. The judge almost always determines punishment.
2. The judge may be required to follow specific sentencing guidelines.
3. The eighth amendment to the U.S. constitution provides that punishment may not be cruel or unusual.
4. Factors such as no criminal history, a good public record, and professional or personal responsibilities may persuade the judge to provide a lighter sentence.
5. A previous criminal record, use of a dangerous weapon, and the type of conviction may persuade the judge to provide a harsher sentence.
6. Judges almost always give repeat offenders harsher sentences.

Circumstances that Can Adversely Affect Sentencing:

Most states carry statutes which call for harsher penalties if a defendant's crime involves the use of a dangerous or deadly weapon, serious or permanent bodily injury, or crimes against youth or the elderly. These enhancements generally increase the sentencing penalties.

Appeals

After a defendant has been found guilty by way of trial, the defense attorney may request a higher court to reverse the lower court's decision. The appellate process is primarily limited to correcting flaws in procedure and not to change a trial courts finding of fact. It is important to recognize that the appeals process may only begin after the defendant has received the final verdict. The timeline of the appeals process varies from State-to-State. However, time limits do exist. In death penalty cases, the appeals process is automatic.

Plea Bargaining

95% of all cases end in a plea-bargain. Plea-bargaining is an excellent way to avoid a potential harsh conviction in favor of an agreed upon lighter conviction.

The prosecutor has the burden of proof. The defendant is innocent until proven guilty. During the trial, the prosecutor must present a case that convinces the judge or jury beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty.

The charges filed against the defendant at arraignment may be different from those originally filed by the arresting police officers.

It is critical that the attorney and defendant manage the details. Cases are won and lost in the details.

In many cases it is advisable to hire an investigator to design and implement a sound strategy to put the details on the defendant's side.

The appeals process works differently state-by-state. However, in most states, an appeal goes from the Criminal Court to the State Court Of Appeals to the State Supreme Court.

The defendant must manage his attorney. The defendant must make sure he understands what the attorney is doing, and why he is doing it, before it is done. The defendant can't wait until after the attorney presents the defense to inquire as to the course of action.

Understanding Bail

Bail is a method to get the defendant released during the trial proceedings. Bail is an amount of money used by the court to ensure the defendant comes back to court when required to do so. There are typically two factors the judge considers before setting bail.

Any bail argument by the defense attorney must address both parts:

1. Is the defendant a danger to the community?
2. What is the likelihood the defendant will flee?

Bail release options include:

1. Cash Bail. The defendant is responsible for paying the entire amount of bail to be released. The defendant will receive his bail back at the completion of all court appearances.
2. Release On Own Recognizance. If the judge is convinced the defendant is not a risk, he may release the defendant on his own recognizance.
3. Surety Bond. The bail agent guarantees to the court that they are responsible for the bond if the defendant fails to appear.
4. Property Bond. The court records a lien on the property of the defendant to secure the bail amount.

What if I don't like my public defender?

A request for a new public defender is rarely granted. The defendant's rights are limited to the appointment of an attorney and not to the attorney of their choice. The defendant must prove to the court that representation is sub-standard, even incompetent. That may be done through claiming personality conflicts, or differences in communication, ethics, strategy, or through a potential bias.

What if I think the judge or prosecutor is biased?

The defense attorney may ask the judge to recuse himself (withdraw from the case) or he may file a motion with the court. In some states it is the automatic right of the defendant to recuse a judge on the basis the defendant believes the judge to be biased.

Legal Terms & Meanings

Not Guilty Plea

A plea by the defendant claiming innocence.

Guilty Plea

A plea by the defendant admitting guilt.

Nolo Contendre

By issuing a plea of nolo contendere, or "no contest", the defendant accepts the punishment without formally admitting that he was guilty. By doing this, he avoids the consequences of a guilty plea with regard to potential liability to other people for civil (money) damages.

Arraignment

An arraignment is the process by which the defendant is read his rights and the list of charges against him is explained.

Felony

A felony crime is punishable by one year or more in state prison. Sample felony crimes include murder, rape, or armed robbery.

Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor crime is punishable by up to one year in county jail. Sample misdemeanor crimes include drunk driving, disorderly conduct and shoplifting.

Preliminary Hearing

This only occurs when the defendant's plea is "not guilty" in a felony charge. A preliminary hearing is shorter than a trial but operates similarly. It is conducted in front of a judge without a jury present. The primary goal of a preliminary hearing is to identify which charges are fit for trial and which are not.

Municipal Court Trial

A trial in lower court for a misdemeanor.

Sentencing

Once the defendant has plead guilty or received a guilty verdict by way of trial, he will be sentenced.

Superior Court Arraignment

Once a defendant has completed the initial arraignment and preliminary hearing in a felony case, the defendant is arraigned in Superior Court. The defendant presents a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest.

Appeals

After a defendant has been found guilty by way of trial, the defense attorney may request a higher court to reverse the lower court's decision.

Pre-Trial Conference / Plea Bargaining

The pre-trial conference is a formal setting where plea-bargaining occurs. The prosecution may offer alternative sentencing. The charge may be changed to a lesser charge. The number of felony counts may be dropped. A lesser punishment for the same charge may be agreed upon.

Trial

The process by which a defendant is tried on charges and considered guilty or not guilty. Defendants charged with serious misdemeanors and felonies may be entitled to jury trials. Minor misdemeanor charges may be entitled to trial by judge. The rules differ state-by-state.

Bail

An insurance policy to ensure the defendant appears at his next scheduled court date. It is cash or a cash equivalent. An attorney may bring a motion to reduce bail at any appearance before the court. Bail can be received by cash, check, property, or a bond, which is a guaranteed payment of the full amount of bail. Bail is sometimes waived if the court feels the defendant is a good risk, and therefore is released on his own recognizance.

Voir Dire

The process of selecting a jury through questioning by attorneys. This is the time when the attorneys may set the tone of the trial. Many cases have been won or lost in voir dire.