When convicted of a crime and facing charges, it is natural to feel nervous about your future. The experienced Buffalo criminal defense attorneys at Friedman & Ranzenhofer are here to help in your time of need. We will aggressively fight to protect your rights and defend your freedoms. In the meantime, this article may alleviate some of your fears by providing some helpful information on the steps in a criminal case. Contact our office today.
Steps in a Criminal Case | Prosecution Timeline
Criminal prosecution follows four basic steps. Arraignment is when a defendant is brought before the judge and assigned an attorney. The defendant’s charges are read, and a plea is entered. A plea of guilty will result in the defendant being scheduled for sentencing. Submission of pre-trial motions and discovery requests is next in the defense process. The trial, which may be without a jury, is after the discovery. Plea bargaining may take place at various points in the proceedings, and most cases are disposed of through this process.
Steps in a Criminal Case | Rights of a Victim
The courts are obligated to keep a victim advised of the progress of the case, including arraignment, the defendant’s release from custody, pre-trial motions, sentencing, and parole. Victims may also provide a statement during the sentencing phase. Victims of a crime also may have the right to an order of protection during and following the trial.
Were you or a loved one charged with a crime and are seeking an attorney? Contact dedicated Buffalo criminal defense lawyer Robert Friedman for immediate help.
