Every day, over 700,000 people are jailed in local jails around the United States. People are frequently anxious after being arrested and have no idea about the legal process. Therefore, it’s best to learn about bail and trial procedures in case you or your loved ones get arrested.

Take a look at this guide to understand the process of a criminal trial in the US.

1. Investigation Phase

When someone suspects another person, they file a complaint against them at the police station. The law enforcement officer will then forward the complaint to the court. Moreover, the judge will order a police officer to investigate the case. This investigation includes a background check, 24-hour surveillance, checking criminal records, etc.

2. Charging

When deciding whether to bring the case before the federal judge, the prosecutor first examines the facts provided by the police and the data they acquired after interrogating the parties involved. The defendant is charged and detained by the police if the evidence indicates the suspect might have committed the crime.

3. Initial Hearing

After a person gets arrested, an initial hearing is arranged either on the same or the next day. In this hearing, the judge assigned a judge to the accused person if they can’t pay for one. The judge also decides whether the suspect can get bail or not. The judge has the power to not give bail in case the suspect is a flight risk.

4. Discovery Phase

As the trial begins, both parties present their cases. Both the defense attorney and prosecutor present a set of evidence and witnesses to make their case strong. A judge decides whether the defendant is guilty or innocent based on the evidence.

5. Plea Bargaining

Plea bargains are settlements negotiated by prosecutors and convicts in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty to avoid trial. If the defendant pleads guilty, the trial will directly move to the sentencing phase.

6. Sentencing

If the defendant is proven innocent, they’re set free. However, the judge imposes specific punishments after the defendant pleads or is found guilty. The punishment is based on the crime. For example, a defendant can get the death penalty if they have killed an innocent person.

 

Unable to pay your bail sum? Reach out to a respected local bail bondsman or a bail bond agency, and they’ll post the bail on your behalf.

DeLaughter Bail Bonds’ bail agents will be there to help you get out of jail. We offer premium 24/7 bail bond services. We’re one of the leading bail bond agencies in Indiana that help individuals lend all the support that defendants need. We offer a wide range of bail bond options, including transfer bonds and surety bonds.

We are known for our premium services in Wabash County, Howard County, Cass County, Kosciusko County, Grant County, and many more. You can reach out to our bail bond agency today and learn about our services.