Felony, Misdemeanor & Criminal Traffic Case Process

Introduction

What Happens if I’m Arrested?

When Will I Get out of Jail?

• Mandatory Detention on Domestic Violence Charges;

• Bond Hearings;

• Pre-trial Release;

• Pre-trial Detention on “Non-bondable” Offenses

Can the Public Defender Represent Me?

• Indigency Screening;

• Appointment of the Public Defender by the Judge

Filing of Formal Charges

Arraignment  

I’ve Never Been in Trouble Before

• Pre-trial Diversion Programs;

• Drug Court;

• Misdemeanor Diversion;

• Traffic Case Diversion

How Does the Public Defender Prepare My Case?

I Want to Get this Case over With, What Can I Do?

• Guilty & No Contest Pleas;

• Consequences of a Guilty or No Contest Plea;

• Probation;

• Fees, Costs & Restitution

What Happens at the Trial?

• Trial;

• Bench Trial;

• Jury Trial

What Happens If I’m Convicted at Trial?

• Sentencing;

• Probation;

• Fees, Costs and Restitution;

• Appeals

Can I Get this Case off My Record?

• Sealing & Expunging Arrest Information

• Frequently Asked Questions About Sealing & Expunging