Being charged with a crime — whether it is a violation, misdemeanor, or felony — is a worrisome feeling. Your future is in jeopardy, and the results of your conviction could very well determine the course of your life. That is why you need experienced criminal defense, which is one of the things that Jamestown attorney Scott Humble excels at. Contact our office today to arrange a free consultation. We want to be there for you when you need it most.
In the meantime, here is some information on the steps in a criminal case in New York State.
Steps in a Criminal Case in New York | Arraignment
The first step of every criminal case is the arraignment, and this event forms the basis of everything to follow. The defendant appears in court, typically with her or his criminal defense attorney also present, and if the defendant cannot afford an attorney, the court will assign one to the defendant. If the defendant agrees to plead guilty, he or she will be sentenced soon after. If the defendant and the criminal defense attorney decide instead to plead not guilty, the case will go to trial.
Steps in a Criminal Case in New York | Discovery
Before the trial, both the prosecutor and the defendant’s criminal defense attorney will share information with one another in a stage known as discovery. During this period, both sides will attempt to bolster their cases by accumulating evidence and interviewing those who were involved in the crime.
Steps in a Criminal Case in New York | Trial
Next, the trial will be held in front of a judge or a jury, and the prosecutor will have the duty to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty of the crime. If the defendant’s attorney is able to demonstrate that the prosecutor’s argument is incomplete or incorrect, the defendant may be found not guilty.
Steps in a Criminal Case in New York | Contact Humble Law Offices
Verdicts in criminal cases often lead to life-altering consequences, whether the sentences involve jail time, probation, community service, fines, or other penalties. Experienced Jamestown criminal defense lawyer Scott Humble has over 30 years of experience helping clients accused of committing crimes in the state of New York, and we would be honored to represent you in court. Schedule a free consultation today with experienced Jamestown criminal defense lawyer Scott Humble today. He will fight tirelessly to ensure that justice prevails in your criminal case.
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Out of Town Legal Resources
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