Did you get arrested and need legal help? Check out these 4 criminal defense tips for guidance, then give our Buffalo lawyers a call today.
1. The Steps in a Criminal Case
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 and a plea of guilty will result in the defendant being scheduled for sentencing.
- Submission of pretrial motions and discovery requests is next in the defense process.
- The trial may be with or without a jury and, if found guilty, the defendant is sentenced.
- Plea bargaining may take place at various points in the proceedings, and most cases are disposed of by plea bargaining.
2. The Rights of a Crime Victim
- The courts are obligated to keep a victim advised of the progress of the case, including arraignment, the defendant’s release from custody, pretrial motions, the trial, sentencing, and parole.
- Victims may also provide a statement during the sentencing phase.
- Keep in touch with the court and prosecutor stay abreast of the case’s status.
- A crime victim may also have the right to an order of protection during and following the trial.
- Restitution may recover loss of property and wages.
3. The Consequences of a Criminal Conviction on Your Employment Record
- In New York, more than 100 jobs require a license or registration which could be impacted by a conviction.
- A certificate of relief from disabilities, or a certificate of good conduct may help protect your employment status.
- If you are charged with driving while intoxicated, you will not be able to retain a commercial driver’s license.
- We will describe how a criminal conviction may impact your license in certain areas.
4. How To Seal Your Criminal Record
- Certain records are automatically sealed, such as those where charges are dismissed.
- Child defendants’ records, and those of youthful defenders are sealed.
- Traffic violations are partially sealed.
- Other felonies and misdemeanors will not be sealed, but defendants can request a certificate of relief from disabilities or a certificate of good conduct.
Were you or a loved one charged with a crime somewhere in WNY and have questions about our 4 criminal defense tips? Contact dedicated Buffalo Criminal Defense Lawyer, Robert Friedman for help.
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