Arrest to Trial:  an Overview, Felony  

After you have been arrested for a felony, which includes assault, some DUI's, robbery, rape, child molest, and murder, for example, a bail amount will be set.  The cost of bail is usually 8-10% of the bail.  At your first court appearance, the ARRAIGNMENT, you will be notified of the charges the District Attorney has filed.  You can hire your own lawyer or the Court will appoint a Public Defender.  The next court date(s) will be set to allow the lawyers to investigate and discuss any possible plea bargains.  If a case is not resolved by plea bargain, then it will be set for a PRELIMINARY HEARING.  At the preliminary hearing, a judge will hear evidence through witnesses, usually from the police officers investigating the case, and decide whether the case should be set for a trial.  At a trial, a jury of 12 people will be chosen to hear your case.  The prosecutor has to prove the crimes charged BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT.  If the prosecutor cannot do that, then you are free to go.  If a defendant is found guilty, either by jury or by a plea bargain, then the Judge will require information about you and your background to decide the SENTENCE.  If you are sentenced, you could get PROBATION or you could serve time in prison.  If you have been found guilty by a jury, then you may file an APPEAL to challenge the errors in your trial.  Your NOTICE OF APPEAL must be filed within 60 days (for a felony) from the date of sentencing.

This summary is only a brief road map of a criminal case.  A good defense of your case is essential.  If you can afford an attorney, you should hire a private attorney to help you.  My fees are REASONABLE and I offer FREE CONSULTATIONS and sometimes, on a case-by-case basis, I can offer PAYMENT PLANS.

You will have many other questions.  Call me at 916-206-4315 or contact me through this website and I will get back to you quickly to help you with your questions.