The suspect has the opportunity to plead guilty. If they plead guilty to the charge, the judge will sentence the individual and the case does not go to trial. The suspect also has the choice of plea bargaining and admitting guilt to a lesser offense. If the prosecutor agrees to the plea bargain, the suspect is sentenced for the lesser offense and the case will also not go to trial.
Preliminary Hearing
Plea Bargaining
Arraignment
Arrest
Initial Appearance
Booking
Grand Jury Indictment
These are the typical steps in a criminal case process:
1. Arrest: The suspect is taken into custody by law enforcement.
2. Booking: The suspect's information is recorded, fingerprints are taken, and they may be held in jail until their initial court appearance.
3. Initial Appearance: The suspect appears before a judge, is informed of the charges against them, and may have bail set.
4. Arraignment: The suspect enters a plea of guilty or not guilty to the charges.
5. Preliminary Hearing: If the suspect pleads not guilty, a hearing may be held to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
6. Grand Jury Indictment: In some cases, a grand jury will review the evidence and decide whether to formally charge the suspect with a crime.
7. Plea Bargaining: The suspect may negotiate with the prosecutor to plead guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a lighter sentence.
8. Trial: If the case goes to trial, evidence is presented, witnesses testify, and a judge or jury will determine the suspect's guilt or innocence.
9. Sentencing: If the suspect is found guilty, a judge will impose a sentence, which may include fines, probation, community service, or jail time.