What can you expect as your criminal case moves forward?

If you have been arrested in California, chances are you have more questions than answers, no matter what the charge is. From misdemeanors to felonies, each year thousands of people face criminal cases in California. Not everyone knows how these cases will play out. So, what can you expect as your criminal case moves forward?

Well, after the arrest, you will usually be brought in front of a judge for a hearing and, at that time, you will be informed of what the charges are in the case and you will be asked to enter a preliminary plea. Bail will also be set at that time, so that you can post bail to be released as the case moves forward, or you may be released without bail but with your promise to return to court for every hearing as required.

Next will be the “discovery” phase of the case, in which the prosecution and defense exchange information about the evidence they have. The prosecution must turn all of its evidence over to the defense. From there, many defendants engage in plea negotiations, while others prepare their cases for trial.

How will your case end?

Some criminal cases get dismissed for lack of evidence or due to constitutional violations. Many others end when defendants enter guilty pleas and negotiate plea bargains. Still others go all the way to a trial, either in front of a judge or a jury. How will your case end? At our law firm, we do our best to help our clients make the right choices for their own unique situations. For more information, please visit the criminal defense overview section of our law firm’s website.