What can I expect when facing a court martial?

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "What can I expect when facing a court martial?"

Transcription

1 What can I expect when facing a court martial? A court martial is something anyone subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) could potentially face. Any one of us could potentially face a false accusation or an unfortunate turn of events and face a court martial. Going through the process can be frustrating and imposing, but the help of an experienced military lawyer can help you through it. Why is nothing happening with my case? As much as the military prides itself on swift justice, many cases can drag on and on during the investigation. To be honest, the majority of cases the military sees these days are sexual assault cases. Once an allegation is made, the machinery of the military takes over. If you are accused either yourself or your accuser will likely receive PCS orders. There will be a long investigation as military investigators dig through your past and speak with everyone they can think of. If your case is at this stage, the best thing you can do is to say absolutely nothing. If you know a potential case is being made against you, it is in your best interests to not talk about what could potentially happen with ANYONE. Once the military has enough evidence to go to trial, everything will start moving incredibly fast and it will seem like everything is an emergency and the military has to get you to trial immediately, even after the long investigation. Do not talk about your case If you are suspected of an offense, do not be surprised if military investigators or your chain of command want to ask you about it. If they suspect you of an offense, they are required to read you your Article 31 rights. If ANYONE ever reads you your rights and asks if you would like to speak to an attorney, the only acceptable answer is to ask for an attorney! Generally military investigators will do what they call rapport building first as they try to gain your trust first. If you are called in to speak with military investigators, they are not your friend, and they are not trying to help or protect you, they are trying to convict you and send you to prison. Be polite and respectful, but under no circumstances should you speak to them when they read you your rights. One of the military s favorite tricks is a pretextual phone call. They will have a friend, colleague, or maybe your accuser call or text you to ask about the case. If you suddenly receive a phone call from someone who is asking you about something bad that happened or even implying you did something wrong, you can certainly bet there are military investigators listening in and recording everything you say. Do not say a word, simply and politely, but firmly end the conversation and call a lawyer immediately. To underscore the importance of not speaking to anyone, I want to share what I do when I prosecute someone. Recently, I was investigating a sexual assault case as a prosecutor for the Air Force. As I spoke to all of the witnesses and all of the close friends and colleagues of the person I was investigating, I routinely asked if that person had been talking about what happened. Sure enough, he had been talking to everyone. His own words are not considered hearsay, so all of the information I learned will be coming in to evidence. A lot of what he said was damaging including him telling a friend of his that he was not sure the victim was able to consent but he couldn t remember anything and he always knew her to be a truthful person. Obviously, that is damaging for him at trial. At a minimum though, even if I didn t want to use anything I learned, I would at least know exactly what his defense would be at trial. He would have zero strategic advantage if he chose to testify. The only reason I was able to get that

2 competitive advantage was because he opened his mouth and talked to his friends and co workers. Never talk about your case, the government will almost always find out and will use it against you. What kind of Court Martial could I be facing? There are three kinds of Court Martials, and what kind of Court you face has a huge impact on what kind of punishment you will receive. While we do not have felonies and misdemeanors in the Military, a good rule of thumb is that a Special Court Martial is the equivalent of a misdemeanor and a General Court Martial is the equivalent of a felony. You will have no control over which type of Court you will face as the military makes that decision. Summary Court Martial: This is the lowest type of court available and is intended for lesser offenses. If you are convicted, the maximum sentence is thirty (30) days of confinement, and a reduction to E 1, hard labor without confinement for 45 days, and forfeiture of two thirds pay for one month. You cannot be given a bad conduct discharge or a dishonorable discharge at a Summary Court Martial. A summary Court Martial is not conducted by a Judge and you will not see anything close to a jury. A Summary Court Officer will be appointed to hear the evidence in your case and determine your sentence. Special Court Martial: A Special Court Martial will seem more familiar because it will be conducted by a Judge and you have the right to a panel (similar to a jury). A Special Court Martial runs much more quickly than a General Court Martial, but there are also import limitations on the punishment you can receive. The maximum sentence you can receive is a bad conduct discharge, confinement for twelve (12) months, forfeitures of two thirds pay for six months, reduction to E 1, hard labor without confinement, and restrictions to base. You cannot be sentenced to a Dishonorable Discharge in a Special Court Martial. In order to be convicted, all the government needs is to convince two thirds of your member panel that you are guilty, we do not need unanimous decisions. General Court Martial: There is no maximum sentence in a General Court Martial except for the maximum punishment for the specific offense you are charged with. What this means is you do not get a break just for facing a lesser court that will be easier for the government. On the other hand, there are more procedural protections in a general court martial. For example, you are entitled to an Article 32 hearing where a neutral military attorney will determine if there is probable cause in your case. In order to be convicted, all the government needs is to convince two thirds of your member panel that you are guilty, we do not need unanimous decisions. However, if a panel sentences you to more than ten (10) years of confinement, three fourths of the panel must agree. Pre Trial Procedure To formally begin the court martial process, you will have charges preferred on you. What typically happens is that you will be called into your Commanders office in service dress. You will be required to formally report in, and will be standing at attention in front of your Commander while the office is full of people. Likely, your First Sergeant will be there along with your supervisor, and representatives from the legal office will be in attendance. Your Commander will be reading from a script as he or she formally accuses you of UCMJ offenses. It will be a one way conversation, and you should not speak. Your job at the preferral of charges is to maintain your military bearing. The next step in the process depends on what kind of court you are facing. If you are facing a General Court Martial, you will go into an Article 32 Hearing. If you are facing a Special Court Martial, you will

3 proceed to referral. I have seen cases that were preferred as a General Court Martial and I focused my efforts on convincing the government to go with a lesser forum and saw the case be referred to a Special Court Martial. Generally at an Article 32 hearing, you need to have a specific strategy and objective. For example, the most common strategy is to be in receive mode and learn as much as you can in advance of trial to earn as much of a competitive advantage there. Maybe you want to focus your efforts on forum to convince the government to reduce to a special court martial. What you need to know about an Article 32 hearing though is that it is a low standard for the government to meet, there are generally very few rules of evidence, and it is often seen as a rubber stamp. I have seen clients spend massive amounts of money hiring private attorneys for an Article 32 and then had no more money for the trial itself. Understand coming into an Article 32 that it is important to have a comprehensive strategy for both trial and the 32, but if you need to put all your eggs in one basket, don t choose the Article 32. The standard the government has to meet is probable cause which means it is more likely than not a crime was committed and you are the one who committed it. Even if the Article 32 officer recommends not going forward, don t be surprised if the military still proceeds towards trial. The next step in the process is referral. If you are facing a Special Court Martial, preferral and referral are sometimes accomplished the same day. If you are facing a General Court Martial, referral cannot happen until after the Article 32 report is completed and presented to the convening authority. Referral is essentially the convening authority agreeing that a court martial should take place. For a Special Court Martial, the convening authority is typically the installation Commander, so whoever is in Command of your base is likely the one who makes the decision. For a General Court Martial, we typically go one rung up the chain of Command, so your installation Commander s boss is likely the one who makes the decision. Your Convening Authority is the person who actually convenes the court at referral. He or she will sign an order to make the Court Martial happen, and he or she will also choose who will serve on the member panel. After Referral, the case needs to be docketed. There will be a telephone conference where your court is scheduled. We look at the schedules of the government, defense attorneys, experts, and Judges. At the end of that phone call, you will have a trial date and a Judge. What can you control? There are four very important decisions that are yours and yours alone. It is important to think about what you want to do and discuss the pros and cons with your attorney. Here are your decisions: 1) You have the right to an attorney. The military will provide you with a free attorney. You can either be represented by this person, or hire an attorney at your own expense. You can also hire an attorney and still keep your military attorney. Now I know a lot of private attorneys like to trash the free defense counsel because they want you to hire them, but the truth is many free military attorneys are excellent. I used to be one, and almost every private attorney who handles Court Martials used to be one. If they have not had any military experience, you might want to choose someone more experienced. There are some great military attorneys, just as there are some great private attorneys. There are also some terrible military attorneys without the experience to succeed. There are also terrible private attorneys. When you make the decision of who to represent you, make sure you are comfortable and do not necessarily go with the first person you meet. This is your life, and finding an attorney who will represent you well is one of the most important decisions you can make.

4 2) You have the right to plead guilty or not guilty. Your attorney will have an opinion based upon the evidence, but this is your decision alone. In fact, pleading guilty is very hard in the military. You cannot just say you are guilty, you have to be sworn in and testify in order to convince a Judge that you are in fact guilty. You will be instructed that if you believe you are not guilty you have a moral obligation to plead not guilty. The American system of Justice is built on guilty pleas, but the military is not. It is a rare case where you are better off pleading guilty. If any attorney tries to tell you that you will be better off pleading guilty, really think that decision through. If you plead guilty, you give up your Constitutional Rights to a trial and to be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. In exchange, your member panel will be given a jury instruction that says many times the path to rehabilitation begins with a guilty plea. I have never believed that hearing that sentence is enough to give up your Constitutional Rights, especially since if you plead not guilty, the jury will be none the wiser. I believe guilty pleas should only happen if you have a strategic reason, meaning there is evidence you can prevent the panel from hearing, or some other major advantage. I am a strong advocate of the litigate to mitigate strategy, which means even in a hopeless case, there are good points to be drawn out during trial to earn you sympathy. Also, I know plenty of defense attorneys who are convinced that juries do not like voting against a defendant twice, so if they already voted against you to find you guilty, it is hard for them to pile on at sentencing. Of course every case is different, but there is strong work to be done even in the most hopeless of cases. 3) You have the right to remain silent. I encourage everyone to remain silent before trial, and I cannot reinforce that enough, do not talk about your case to anyone. At trial, you have the choice to say nothing and force the government to prove your case against you beyond a reasonable doubt. You also have the right to testify, but if that is your choice, you should tell your attorney as soon as possible so he or she can make sure you are prepared. If you get to sentencing, you can choose to remain silent, to testify, or to make an unsworn statement. I love the unsworn statement because it allows you to say anything you want in your own defense without the government having an opportunity to get up and cross examine you. Used properly, it can make a real impact on a panel. 4) Finally, you have the right to decide how your court should be composed. For example, you can decide that you want a member panel composed of only officers, or if you are enlisted you can decide that you want one third of your panel to be enlisted. You can also decide to go with a Judge alone to decide your fate, but I would caution you to be careful. I often say that going Judge alone is an extended guilty plea. If you have very technical defense that a panel might view as quibbling, then a Judge might be appropriate, but you should have a justification behind whatever decision you make. The prevailing view is that a panel of officers will take it easier on you at sentencing because officers see more misconduct and are more likely to have a better perspective and take it easy on you. The prevailing view is often that enlisted members have seen too much bullshit and are more skeptical during findings, but will be tougher at sentencing because they have gone their entire career without getting in trouble, so why couldn t you? For me, I like to learn as much about my panel members as I can early on and base the decision on the individuals rather than stereotypes. Court Martial Procedure The first thing to happen when the court begins is everyone will be reading from a script. For example, the Judge will go over your rights to make sure you understand them. The prosecutor will detail how everyone involved in the court was appointed and ensure the record is clear that the court was properly

5 convened. The script runs everything until we get to arraignment. At that point, you are asked whether you plead guilty or not guilty. Your lawyer will speak for you, and before you can plead guilty or not guilty, the court will take up any motions your lawyer has filed. Pre trial motions are important because it shapes the way the evidence comes into trial. This is our first chance to draw the battle lines and have a much better idea how the evidence will come out. You have a chance to limit the prosecution s case, or to prevent damaging evidence from coming out. Make sure to talk with your attorney about what motions might be appropriate for your case. Next comes Jury Selection. Now we do not have juries in the military, instead they are called panel members, but this is very similar to the civilian jury selection. The stated purpose is to question potential panel members to ensure they do not have a bias against you. For example, we need to ensure that none of them think you are guilty before we even start. Remember, these people were specifically selected by the Convening Authority, so we have a lot of work to do. However, a good attorney has several secondary objectives. For example, we need to introduce our theme and theory, we need to start telling our story and defense as soon as possible, so to the extent we can, we need to be implanting these ideas from the beginning. I know some attorneys who believe jury selection is a waste of time, but I have absolutely won and lost trials during jury selection before. Next comes opening statements. Opening statements are critical, but for some reason overlooked by a lot of attorneys. You are not allowed to argue during an opening statement, but that does not mean you cannot be persuasive. You should generally expect a very boring opening statement from the government that will list out the witnesses who will testify and the evidence they shall present. The job of an attorney in Opening Statement is to capture the attention of the panel and tell a compelling story. If you tell a compelling story in your opening, you have the panel s undivided attention. Storytelling is a powerful device, and if you need any proof of that think about how much money is made in Hollywood. A good attorney can use effective storytelling methods to win over a member panel at the very beginning of trial. You can absolutely win a trial during opening by shaping how the panel views the case. Following opening statements, you will have the presentation of evidence. We get evidence through witnesses. So for example, a victim or police officer will testify about what they saw and observed, and what they say will be evidence against you. You have the right to cross examine them, and an experienced attorney will know how to effectively cross examine witnesses to draw out the points needed for your defense. A good cross examination is limited to the points you need to make rather than reinforcing what the government witness just said. After the government is over, you have the right to present your own witnesses and evidence, and potentially testify yourself. After you are done, the government is given the opportunity to rebut anything the defense just presented. What you should expect is a frankly boring lineup of witnesses. I say boring because it is very rare any new information is presented. Television always scripts dramatic moments of witnesses breaking down on the stand and coming clean, but this never happens in real life. It is ingrained in attorneys to never ask a question you do not already know the answer to, so do not expect too many surprises. Finally, you get to closing arguments. This is finally the moment when your attorney is allowed to argue the case. A novice attorney will have an extremely long closing argument because he or she believes the panel members are hanging on their every word. In reality, after decades of our culture watching television, we have attention spans of roughly six to seven minutes at a time before our minds begin to

6 wander, and as a rule of thumb members start to mentally check out after twenty five minutes. This means your attorney needs to stay focused and on point to effectively argue your case. The prosecution will always go first because they have the burden of proof. The defense is allowed to make their closing argument, and then the prosecution gets the last say to rebut any argument the defense just made. Following closing arguments, the Judge will instruct the members on the law in your case, and they will go to deliberate. Waiting on a jury is one of the hardest things to do. The rule of thumb is that the longer the jury deliberates, the better the odds are for the defendant because clearly at least one person is having problems with the government s case, so hope for a long wait. Sentencing In the military, once the panel gives their verdict we hopefully go home because the verdict is not guilty, but if it is guilty, we go right into sentencing. The government presents their evidence first, and the rules of evidence apply. Next, the defense gets to present almost any information it wants. So for example, you can get character letters from everyone you know talking about how you can bounce back from this. You can present the award you got in high school for saving a friend s life, or an Eagle Scout award, or whatever else you have in your past that speaks to you deserving a chance. The rules are relaxed for the defense so you can present all of this mitigating evidence. Then the government has a chance to rebut anything you just presented, but the rules will be relaxed for the government too at that point, so your attorney should be careful not to give the government any openings. The member panel is again instructed on the law, and go back to deliberate. If you are ordered into confinement, you should expect to be taken into custody as soon as the trial is over. Also, you should expect to be tested for drugs when you are taken into custody, so make sure you do not have anything in your system. Never give up hope The Court Martial process is long and grueling. What I would encourage you to do is not lose hope. Find an attorney that you trust and place your faith in them. I have represented people who were facing the most horrific criminal charges you can imagine, but I have never met anyone I was ready to give up on. Regardless of what happens in the courtroom, all of us still have a path forward in life and something to offer the people around us. No matter what, keep your professional bearing, and stay focused on the future and your way forward. At the end of this grueling process, there is no greater feeling than hearing the two best words in the English language, not guilty. Good luck!

What can I expect facing criminal charges?

What can I expect facing criminal charges? What can I expect facing criminal charges? Being charged with a crime can be one of the hardest things you will ever have to deal with. The American Criminal Justice system is not designed to be stress

More information

Here are several tips to help you navigate Fairfax County s legal system.

Here are several tips to help you navigate Fairfax County s legal system. Since 2004, I ve been a daily presence in the Fairfax County Courthouse and have handled hundreds of drug cases as both a Prosecutor and a Defense Attorney. I have spent the last decade analyzing the legal

More information

INFORMATION PAPER ARTICLE 15 PROCEDURES

INFORMATION PAPER ARTICLE 15 PROCEDURES INFORMATION PAPER ARTICLE 15 PROCEDURES You have been informed that your commander has started non-judicial punishment ( Article 15 ) procedures against you. This sheet is designed to help you understand

More information

SUMMARY COURT-MARTIAL INFORMATION

SUMMARY COURT-MARTIAL INFORMATION U.S. ARMY TRIAL DEFENSE SERVICE DLIFLC & POM Field Office, Region V Monterey, CA 93944-3327 SUMMARY COURTS-MARTIAL SUMMARY COURT-MARTIAL INFORMATION This information paper describes your rights if you

More information

INTRODUCTION DO YOU NEED A LAWYER?

INTRODUCTION DO YOU NEED A LAWYER? INTRODUCTION The purpose of this handbook is to provide answers to some very basic questions that inmates or inmates families might have regarding the processes of the criminal justice system. In no way

More information

Jury Duty and Selection

Jury Duty and Selection Jury Duty and Selection Introduction That unwelcome letter arrives in the mail jury duty. Many famous trial attorneys have described jurors as a group of individuals who didn't have a good enough reason

More information

The Federal Criminal Process

The Federal Criminal Process Federal Public Defender W.D. Michigan The Federal Criminal Process INTRODUCTION The following summary of the federal criminal process is intended to provide you with a general overview of how your case

More information

TRIAL DEFENSE SERVICE FACT SHEET Rights as a Suspect

TRIAL DEFENSE SERVICE FACT SHEET Rights as a Suspect TRIAL DEFENSE SERVICE FACT SHEET Rights as a Suspect 1. YOUR RIGHTS AS A SUSPECT a. This information paper describes your rights if you are suspected of committing a criminal offense. You should become

More information

CRS Report for Congress

CRS Report for Congress Order Code RS21850 May 26, 2004 CRS Report for Congress Received through the CRS Web Summary Military Courts-Martial: An Overview Estela I. Velez Pollack Legislative Attorney American Law Division The

More information

Guide to Criminal procedure

Guide to Criminal procedure Guide to Criminal procedure This free guide gives a general idea to members of the public as to what you may expect to encounter if you or someone you know is charged with a criminal offence. The overriding

More information

An Introduction to the Federal Public Defender=s Office and the Federal Court System

An Introduction to the Federal Public Defender=s Office and the Federal Court System Some Things You Should Know An Introduction to the Federal Public Defender=s Office and the Federal Court System Office of the Federal Public Defender Southern District of West Virginia 300 Virginia Street

More information

Sexual Assault of a Child VOIR DIRE QUESTIONS

Sexual Assault of a Child VOIR DIRE QUESTIONS ATTORNEYS Sexual Assault of a Child VOIR DIRE QUESTIONS 1. What are your feelings or opinions about criminal defense attorneys? 2. Have you ever had a bad experience with a criminal defense attorney? If

More information

YAVAPAI COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER 595 WHITE SPAR ROAD PRESCOTT, ARIZONA 86303 PHONE: (928) 771-3588 FAX: (928) 771-3413 INFORMATION BOOKLET

YAVAPAI COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER 595 WHITE SPAR ROAD PRESCOTT, ARIZONA 86303 PHONE: (928) 771-3588 FAX: (928) 771-3413 INFORMATION BOOKLET YAVAPAI COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER 595 WHITE SPAR ROAD PRESCOTT, ARIZONA 86303 PHONE: (928) 771-3588 FAX: (928) 771-3413 INFORMATION BOOKLET Table of Contents CRIMINAL PROCEDURE Initial Appearance/Bond Preliminary

More information

Boulder Municipal Court Boulder County Justice Center P.O. Box 8015 1777 6 th Street Boulder, CO 80306-8015 www.bouldercolorado.

Boulder Municipal Court Boulder County Justice Center P.O. Box 8015 1777 6 th Street Boulder, CO 80306-8015 www.bouldercolorado. Boulder Municipal Court Boulder County Justice Center P.O. Box 8015 1777 6 th Street Boulder, CO 80306-8015 www.bouldercolorado.gov/court JURY READINESS CONFERENCE INSTRUCTIONS You have set your case for

More information

TOP TEN TIPS FOR WINNING YOUR CASE IN JURY SELECTION

TOP TEN TIPS FOR WINNING YOUR CASE IN JURY SELECTION TOP TEN TIPS FOR WINNING YOUR CASE IN JURY SELECTION PRESENTED BY JEFF KEARNEY KEARNEY & WESTFALL 2501 PARKVIEW STREET, SUITE 300 FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76102 (817) 336-5600 LUBBOCK CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS

More information

HOW A TYPICAL CRIMINAL CASE IS PROSECUTED IN ALASKA

HOW A TYPICAL CRIMINAL CASE IS PROSECUTED IN ALASKA HOW A TYPICAL CRIMINAL CASE IS PROSECUTED IN ALASKA The Office of Victims Rights receives many inquiries from victims about how a criminal case in Alaska is investigated by police and then prosecuted by

More information

AN INTRODUCTION COURT. Victim Services Department of Justice

AN INTRODUCTION COURT. Victim Services Department of Justice AN INTRODUCTION TO COURT Victim Services Department of Justice TABE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION......1 2. FIING A POICE REPORT...1 3. COURT PROCESS......2 4. TESTIFYING IN COURT...5 5. COMMONY ASKED QUESTIONS...6

More information

DESCRIPTION OF THE FEDERAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM FOR DEFENDANTS

DESCRIPTION OF THE FEDERAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM FOR DEFENDANTS DESCRIPTION OF THE FEDERAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM FOR DEFENDANTS DESCRIPTION OF THE FEDERAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM FOR DEFENDANTS This pamphlet has been provided to help you better understand the federal

More information

Stages in a Capital Case from http://deathpenaltyinfo.msu.edu/

Stages in a Capital Case from http://deathpenaltyinfo.msu.edu/ Stages in a Capital Case from http://deathpenaltyinfo.msu.edu/ Note that not every case goes through all of the steps outlined here. Some states have different procedures. I. Pre-Trial Crimes that would

More information

Criminal Justice System Commonly Used Terms & Definitions

Criminal Justice System Commonly Used Terms & Definitions Criminal Justice System Commonly Used Terms & Definitions A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Accused: Acquittal: Adjudication: Admissible Evidence: Affidavit: Alford Doctrine: Appeal:

More information

Decades of Successful Sex Crimes Defense Contact the Innocence Legal Team Now

Decades of Successful Sex Crimes Defense Contact the Innocence Legal Team Now Criminal Court Felonies The U.S. has the highest rate of felony conviction and imprisonment of any industrialized nation. A felony crime is more serious than a misdemeanor, but the same offense can be

More information

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF HAWAII. J. MICHAEL SEABRIGHT United States District Judge

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF HAWAII. J. MICHAEL SEABRIGHT United States District Judge IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF HAWAII August 8, 2011 J. MICHAEL SEABRIGHT United States District Judge GENERAL FEDERAL JURY INSTRUCTIONS IN CIVIL CASES INDEX 1 DUTY OF JUDGE 2

More information

How To Appeal To The Supreme Court In North Carolina

How To Appeal To The Supreme Court In North Carolina QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT YOUR APPEAL AND YOUR LAWYER A Guide Prepared by the Office of the Appellate Defender 1. WHO IS MY LAWYER? Your lawyer s name is on the notice that came with this guide. The

More information

CRIMINAL COURT IN MINNESOTA: Understanding the Process so You can Sleep at Night

CRIMINAL COURT IN MINNESOTA: Understanding the Process so You can Sleep at Night RYAN PACYGA CRIMINAL DEFENSE 333 South 7 th Street, Suite 2850 Minneapolis, MN 55402 612-339-5844 www.arrestedmn.com More information on the YouTube channel Ryan Pacyga CRIMINAL COURT IN MINNESOTA: Understanding

More information

CHARGED with a CRIME What YOU

CHARGED with a CRIME What YOU YOU VE been CHARGED with a CRIME What YOU NEED to KNOW Visit the Alberta Justice website at: www.justice.alberta.ca This booklet is intended to provide general information only. If you require specific

More information

HANDBOOK FOR JURORS IN CRIMINAL AND CIVIL CASES IN THE. For the. Parish of St. Charles. Courthouse. Hahnville, Louisiana JUDGES

HANDBOOK FOR JURORS IN CRIMINAL AND CIVIL CASES IN THE. For the. Parish of St. Charles. Courthouse. Hahnville, Louisiana JUDGES Jury Duty Information HANDBOOK FOR JURORS IN CRIMINAL AND CIVIL CASES IN THE 29 th Judicial Court For the Parish of St. Charles Courthouse Hahnville, Louisiana JUDGES EMILE R. ST.PIERRE Division C M. LAUREN

More information

YOU VE been CHARGED. with a CRIME What YOU. NEED to KNOW. Justice

YOU VE been CHARGED. with a CRIME What YOU. NEED to KNOW. Justice YOU VE been CHARGED with a CRIME What YOU NEED to KNOW Justice 1 This booklet is intended to provide general information only. If you require specific legal advice, please consult the appropriate legislation

More information

*Reference Material For information only* The following was put together by one of our classmates! Good job! Well Done!

*Reference Material For information only* The following was put together by one of our classmates! Good job! Well Done! From: "We The People for Independent Texas" Subject: No contract - No case. *Reference Material For information only* The following was put together by one of our classmates! Good job! Well Done! Courts

More information

JUROR S MANUAL (Prepared by the State Bar of Michigan)

JUROR S MANUAL (Prepared by the State Bar of Michigan) JUROR S MANUAL (Prepared by the State Bar of Michigan) Your Role as a Juror You ve heard the term jury of one s peers. In our country the job of determining the facts and reaching a just decision rests,

More information

A Citizen s Guide to the Criminal Justice System: From Arraignment to Appeal

A Citizen s Guide to the Criminal Justice System: From Arraignment to Appeal A Citizen s Guide to the Criminal Justice System: From Arraignment to Appeal Presented by the Office of the Richmond County District Attorney Acting District Attorney Daniel L. Master, Jr. 130 Stuyvesant

More information

Child Abuse, Child Neglect. What Parents Should Know If They Are Investigated

Child Abuse, Child Neglect. What Parents Should Know If They Are Investigated Child Abuse, Child Neglect What Parents Should Know If They Are Investigated Written by South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center with editing and assistance from the Children s Law Center and the

More information

A Federal Criminal Case Timeline

A Federal Criminal Case Timeline A Federal Criminal Case Timeline The following timeline is a very broad overview of the progress of a federal felony case. Many variables can change the speed or course of the case, including settlement

More information

Colorado Criminal Jury Instruction Chapter 1:04 and Chapter 3

Colorado Criminal Jury Instruction Chapter 1:04 and Chapter 3 Attachment No. 2 Proposed Plain Language Revisions to Colorado Criminal Jury Instruction Chapter 1:04 and Chapter 3 The work of the Plain Language Subcommittee is set forth below. For comparison, the redrafted

More information

Free Legal Consumer Guide Series www.southernmarylandlaw.com

Free Legal Consumer Guide Series www.southernmarylandlaw.com Free Legal Consumer Guide Series Brought To You By Meeting All Your Legal Needs For 50 Years 2 What You Need To Know About Criminal Law & Juvenile Charges HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE If you read this guide,

More information

The Witness and the Justice System in Alberta

The Witness and the Justice System in Alberta The Witness and the Justice System in Alberta Introduction This booklet provides basic information about appearing as a witness in the courts of Alberta. It is designed to explain your role as a witness,

More information

Glossary of Terms Acquittal Affidavit Allegation Appeal Arraignment Arrest Warrant Assistant District Attorney General Attachment Bail Bailiff Bench

Glossary of Terms Acquittal Affidavit Allegation Appeal Arraignment Arrest Warrant Assistant District Attorney General Attachment Bail Bailiff Bench Glossary of Terms The Glossary of Terms defines some of the most common legal terms in easy-tounderstand language. Terms are listed in alphabetical order. A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W

More information

TABLE OF CONTENTS. Homicide Case Flowchart...3. Overview of Homicide Trial...4. Location of Local Court Houses...5. General Courtroom Diagram...

TABLE OF CONTENTS. Homicide Case Flowchart...3. Overview of Homicide Trial...4. Location of Local Court Houses...5. General Courtroom Diagram... A Guide to the Homicide Criminal Justice Process P a g e 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Homicide Case Flowchart...3 Overview of Homicide Trial...4 Location of Local Court Houses...5 General Courtroom Diagram...6

More information

UNDERSTANDING THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM Anne Benson

UNDERSTANDING THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM Anne Benson UNDERSTANDING THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM Anne Benson What is the Criminal Justice System? The criminal justice system is the system we have in the United States for addressing situations where it is believed

More information

If You Have Been Charged With a Crime that Requires the Prosecution to Prove Possession Based on a Constructive Possession Argument It Is Crucial for

If You Have Been Charged With a Crime that Requires the Prosecution to Prove Possession Based on a Constructive Possession Argument It Is Crucial for CONSTRUCTIVE POSSESSION IN TENNESSEE CRIMINAL OFFENSES If You Have Been Charged With a Crime that Requires the Prosecution to Prove Possession Based on a Constructive Possession Argument It Is Crucial

More information

The Legal System in the United States

The Legal System in the United States The Legal System in the United States At the conclusion of this chapter, students will be able to: 1. Understand how the legal system works; 2. Explain why laws are necessary; 3. Discuss how cases proceed

More information

Morgan County Prosecuting Attorney Debra MH McLaughlin

Morgan County Prosecuting Attorney Debra MH McLaughlin Morgan County Prosecuting Attorney Debra MH McLaughlin Directions: From Fairfax Street Entrance, Enter Main Door, turn Right through door, up the narrow staircase. Office is at top of steps. (Old Circuit

More information

If You have Been Arrested Don t Do Anything Until You Read My Special Report!

If You have Been Arrested Don t Do Anything Until You Read My Special Report! If You have Been Arrested Don t Do Anything Until You Read My Special Report! If you have been arrested by the police for a criminal offense, you re probably confused or worried about what steps to take

More information

Facts for. Federal Criminal Defendants

Facts for. Federal Criminal Defendants Facts for Federal Criminal Defendants FACTS FOR FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENDANTS I. INTRODUCTION The following is a short summary of what will happen to you if you are charged in a federal criminal case. This

More information

Community Legal Information Association of Prince Edward Island, Inc.

Community Legal Information Association of Prince Edward Island, Inc. Community Legal Information Association of Prince Edward Island, Inc. Going to Court: Criminal Trial Procedure If you've been charged with a crime and your case has not been diverted from the courts system,

More information

Hamilton County Kids Court

Hamilton County Kids Court Hi. Hamilton County Kids Court A BOOK FOR KIDS WHO ARE GOING TO COURT. Featuring, BUZZ, the kids court dog. Tell us about you. What is your name? How old are you? When is your birthday? What grade are

More information

What you don t know can hurt you.

What you don t know can hurt you. What you don t know can hurt you. Why you need a defense lawyer if you are charged with a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction is SERIOUS A misdemeanor is not a minor crime. If you are convicted of a

More information

Role Preparation. Preparing for a Mock Trial

Role Preparation. Preparing for a Mock Trial Criminal Law Mock Trial: Role Preparation This package contains: PAGE Preparing for a Mock Trial 1 Time Chart 2 Etiquette 3-4 Role Preparation for: Crown and Defence Lawyers 5-7 Judge and Jury 8 Court

More information

If a Dismissal of Your Omaha DUI Charges Is Not Forthcoming You May Decide to Take Your Case in Front of a Jury in the Hope of Being Exonerated

If a Dismissal of Your Omaha DUI Charges Is Not Forthcoming You May Decide to Take Your Case in Front of a Jury in the Hope of Being Exonerated TAKING YOUR OMAHA DUI CASE TO JURY TRIAL If a Dismissal of Your Omaha DUI Charges Is Not Forthcoming You May Decide to Take Your Case in Front of a Jury in the Hope of Being Exonerated Thomas M. Petersen

More information

DISCHARGE UPGRADE MANUAL

DISCHARGE UPGRADE MANUAL DISCHARGE UPGRADE MANUAL Produced by the Justice for Veterans Campaign 1405 Montopolis Dr. Austin, Texas 78741 Using a question and answer format, this Discharge Upgrade Manual (the Manual ) is intended

More information

DEFENDING TRAFFIC TICKETS A Resource for Pro Se Litigants

DEFENDING TRAFFIC TICKETS A Resource for Pro Se Litigants DEFENDING TRAFFIC TICKETS A Resource for Pro Se Litigants Marcel Krzystek, Esq. 5353 W. Dartmouth Avenue, Suite 510 Denver, Colorado 80228 Telephone: (303) 988-1561 Email: m_krzystek@yahoo.com As a criminal

More information

How To Be Tried In A Court In Canada

How To Be Tried In A Court In Canada Community Legal Information Association of Prince Edward Island, Inc. Defending Yourself in Criminal Court If you are charged with a criminal offence, certain federal offences, or a provincial offence,

More information

What is the "Code Of Service Discipline"?

What is the Code Of Service Discipline? This booklet has been designed to provide general information on disciplinary proceedings under the Code of Service Discipline, focusing on the rights and entitlements of CF members under the Canadian

More information

Role Preparation. Preparing for a Mock Trial

Role Preparation. Preparing for a Mock Trial Civil Law Mock Trial: Role Preparation This package contains: PAGE Preparing for a Mock Trial 1-5 Time Chart 6 Etiquette 7-8 Role Preparation for: Plaintiff and Defendant Lawyers 9-12 Judge 13 Jury 13

More information

Medical Malpractice VOIR DIRE QUESTIONS

Medical Malpractice VOIR DIRE QUESTIONS Medical Malpractice VOIR DIRE QUESTIONS INTRODUCTION: Tell the jurors that this is a very big and a very important case. Do a SHORT summary of the case and the damages we are seeking. This summary should

More information

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA. Mock Trial Script. The Case of a Stolen Car

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA. Mock Trial Script. The Case of a Stolen Car SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA Mock Trial Script The Case of a Stolen Car This mock trial is appropriate for middle and high school students. The script includes a role for a narrator,

More information

CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAQ. QUESTION: Am I required to allow law enforcement be allowed to search my house or my car?

CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAQ. QUESTION: Am I required to allow law enforcement be allowed to search my house or my car? THE LAW OFFICES OF SCOTT L. KRAMER CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAQ ANSWERS FROM AN DELAWARE COUNTY ATTORNEY: QUESTION: Am I required to allow law enforcement be allowed to search my house or my car? No. You are never

More information

GETTING TO KNOW THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

GETTING TO KNOW THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM Patricia A. DeAngelis District Attorney GETTING TO KNOW THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM AN OFFENSE IS COMMITTED There are three types of offenses that can be committed in New York State: VIOLATION MISDEMEANOR

More information

A petty offense is either a violation or a traffic infraction. Such offenses are not crimes.

A petty offense is either a violation or a traffic infraction. Such offenses are not crimes. F REQUENTLY A SKED Q UESTIONS A BOUT T HE C RIMINAL J USTICE S YSTEM WHO IS THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY? The New York State Constitution provides that the District Attorney is a public official elected by the

More information

C RIMINAL LAW O V E RVIEW OF T H E T E XAS C RIMINAL J USTICE P ROCESS

C RIMINAL LAW O V E RVIEW OF T H E T E XAS C RIMINAL J USTICE P ROCESS T E X A S Y O U N G L A W Y E R S A S S O C I A T I O N A N D S T A T E B A R O F T E X A S C RIMINAL LAW 1 0 1 : O V E RVIEW OF T H E T E XAS C RIMINAL J USTICE P ROCESS A C RIMINAL LAW 1 0 1 Prepared

More information

Subchapter 6.600 Criminal Procedure in District Court

Subchapter 6.600 Criminal Procedure in District Court Subchapter 6.600 Criminal Procedure in District Court Rule 6.610 Criminal Procedure Generally (A) Precedence. Criminal cases have precedence over civil actions. (B) Pretrial. The court, on its own initiative

More information

SUMMARY OF MECHANICS LIEN LAW FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

SUMMARY OF MECHANICS LIEN LAW FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SUMMARY OF MECHANICS LIEN LAW FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Section Contents Pre-lien Notice(s) Introduction Section Contents Mechanic s Lien Who is Entitled to a Lien? When to File/Record Where to File/Record

More information

You Have the Right. What You & Your Family Should Know In Case You Are Arrested in Illinois

You Have the Right. What You & Your Family Should Know In Case You Are Arrested in Illinois You Have the Right What You & Your Family Should Know In Case You Are Arrested in Illinois Table of Contents Foreword................................. 2 What to Do if Arrested...........................

More information

The Court Process. Understanding the criminal justice process

The Court Process. Understanding the criminal justice process Understanding the criminal justice process Introduction Missouri law establishes certain guarantees to crime victims, including participation in the criminal justice system. Victims can empower themselves

More information

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HOW TO UPGRADE YOUR MILITARY DISCHARGE

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HOW TO UPGRADE YOUR MILITARY DISCHARGE UNITED STATES ARMY TRIAL DEFENSE SERVICE REGION V, FORT LEWIS FIELD OFFICE WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HOW TO UPGRADE YOUR MILITARY DISCHARGE If you received anything but an "Honorable" Discharge, this

More information

PLEA AGREEMENT. My full true name is Amy 1. Curl, and I request that all proceedings against me be had in

PLEA AGREEMENT. My full true name is Amy 1. Curl, and I request that all proceedings against me be had in STATE OF INDIANA ST. JOSEPH COUNTY STATE OF INDIANA v. AMY J. CURL SS: IN THE ST. JOSEPH SUPERIOR COURT CAUSE NO. 71003-1504-F6-263 PLEA AGREEMENT Amy J. Curl, upon her oath, says My full true name is

More information

RULES OF SUPREME COURT OF VIRGINIA PART THREE A CRIMINAL PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE APPENDIX

RULES OF SUPREME COURT OF VIRGINIA PART THREE A CRIMINAL PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE APPENDIX RULES OF SUPREME COURT OF VIRGINIA PART THREE A CRIMINAL PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE APPENDIX Form 6. Suggested Questions to Be Put by the Court to an Accused Who Has Pleaded Guilty (Rule 3A:8). Before accepting

More information

DUI FAQ Guide. FAQs to Help Guide You Through The Florida DUI Process

DUI FAQ Guide. FAQs to Help Guide You Through The Florida DUI Process DUI FAQ Guide FAQs to Help Guide You Through The Florida DUI Process Randy Berman, Esq. Law Offices of Randy Berman (561) 537-3877 RandyBermanLaw.com A Simple guide for someone recently arrested for a

More information

David Crum, Esq. Managing Partner New Mexico Legal Group, P.C.

David Crum, Esq. Managing Partner New Mexico Legal Group, P.C. David Crum, Esq. Managing Partner New Mexico Legal Group, P.C. ABOUT THE AUTHOR David Crum, Esq. David Crum is the Managing Partner of New Mexico Legal Group, P.C., an Albuquerque-based criminal defense

More information

A Victim s Guide to Understanding the Criminal Justice System

A Victim s Guide to Understanding the Criminal Justice System A Victim s Guide to Understanding the Criminal Justice System The Bartholomew County Prosecutor s Office Victim Assistance Program Prosecutor: William Nash 234 Washington Street Columbus, IN 47201 Telephone:

More information

How will I know if I have to give evidence in court?

How will I know if I have to give evidence in court? Being a Witness What is a witness? A witness is a person who is required to come to court to answer questions about a case. The answers a witness gives in court are called evidence. Before giving evidence,

More information

Glossary. To seize a person under authority of the law. Police officers can make arrests

Glossary. To seize a person under authority of the law. Police officers can make arrests Criminal Law Glossary Arrest Charge Convicted Court Crime/Offence Crown Attorney or Prosecutor Criminal Custody Guilty Illegal Innocent Lawyer To seize a person under authority of the law. Police officers

More information

MODEL CRIMINAL DEFENSE MENTORING PROGRAM Utah State Bar New Lawyer Training Program

MODEL CRIMINAL DEFENSE MENTORING PROGRAM Utah State Bar New Lawyer Training Program MODEL CRIMINAL DEFENSE MENTORING PROGRAM Utah State Bar New Lawyer Training Program The following is submitted as a Model Mentoring Plan for the criminal defense practice field. It was prepared by an experienced

More information

Chapter 3. Justice Process at the County Level. Brooks County Courthouse

Chapter 3. Justice Process at the County Level. Brooks County Courthouse Chapter 3 Justice Process at the County Level Brooks County Courthouse Chapter Three: Judice Process at the County Level Developmental Assets: Life Skills: TEKS: Objectives: 10. Safety 30. Responsibility

More information

CAUSE NO. THE STATE OF TEXAS IN THE 49th DISTRICT COURT ZAPATA COUNTY, TEXAS

CAUSE NO. THE STATE OF TEXAS IN THE 49th DISTRICT COURT ZAPATA COUNTY, TEXAS CAUSE NO. STATE S EXHIBIT #1 THE STATE OF TEXAS IN THE 49th DISTRICT COURT VS. OF ZAPATA COUNTY, TEXAS PLEA OF GUILTY, ADMONISHMENTS, VOLUNTARY STATEMENTS, WAIVERS, STIPULATION & JUDICIAL CONFESSION (Defendant

More information

PLEADING YOUR LICENSE AWAY

PLEADING YOUR LICENSE AWAY PLEADING YOUR LICENSE AWAY By Ralph B. Saltsman with Stephen Warren Solomon and Stephen A. Jamieson File this scenario under Just when you think your troubles are over. You accidentally place a bunch of

More information

Purpose of the Victim/Witness Unit

Purpose of the Victim/Witness Unit Purpose of the Victim/Witness Unit The Victim/Witness Assistance Division of the Lake County State s Attorney s Office was formed to serve the needs of people like you. The division is meant to ensure

More information

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS HOUSTON DIVISION

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS HOUSTON DIVISION UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS HOUSTON DIVISION UNITED STATES OF AMERICA v. CRIMINAL ACTION H-00-0000 DEFENDANT(S) JURY INSTRUCTIONS I. General A. Introduction Members of the Jury:

More information

Please Step Out of The Car

Please Step Out of The Car Urban Survival Guide: Please Step Out of The Car A Step by Step Guide Through The Los Angeles DUI & DMV Process MR DUI LA Attorney Mark Rosenfeld The Law Office of Mark Rosenfeld 800-9700-DUI (384) MRDUILA.com

More information

Contents. Introduction. How to report a fraud. What happens when you report a fraud? The investigation process

Contents. Introduction. How to report a fraud. What happens when you report a fraud? The investigation process 1 Contents Introduction How to report a fraud What happens when you report a fraud? The investigation process Who decides if the case should go to court? What is a non-court disposal? What happens at

More information

Your Voice in Criminal Court

Your Voice in Criminal Court Your Voice in Criminal Court a guide to court orientation for adult witnesses INFORMATION + RESOURCES FOR VICTIM SERVICE WORKERS introduction Victim Service Workers have an important role to play in the

More information

RIGHT TO COUNSEL State v. Langley, 351 Or. 652 (2012) Oregon Supreme Court

RIGHT TO COUNSEL State v. Langley, 351 Or. 652 (2012) Oregon Supreme Court RIGHT TO COUNSEL State v. Langley, 351 Or. 652 (2012) Oregon Supreme Court FACTS In December 1989, a jury found defendant Langley guilty of murdering a woman named Ann Gray. A few months later, Langley

More information

If you are in doubt, or think you may not be qualified to serve on a jury for one of the above or any other reasons, please notify the judge.

If you are in doubt, or think you may not be qualified to serve on a jury for one of the above or any other reasons, please notify the judge. Jurors are randomly selected by the county computer system from a source which combines current Medina County voter registration list and residents of the county that hold a valid Texas drivers license

More information

BRYCE A. FETTER ORLANDO JUVENILE CHARGES ATTORNEY

BRYCE A. FETTER ORLANDO JUVENILE CHARGES ATTORNEY BRYCE A. FETTER ORLANDO JUVENILE CHARGES ATTORNEY People make mistakes, especially young people. Juvenile lawyer Bryce Fetter believes children should get a second chance through rehabilitation rather

More information

PARENT GUIDE TO THE JUVENILE COURT CHIPS PROCESS

PARENT GUIDE TO THE JUVENILE COURT CHIPS PROCESS PARENT GUIDE TO THE JUVENILE COURT CHIPS PROCESS INTRODUCTION This booklet has been prepared to help parents gain a better understanding of what to expect in Juvenile Court CHIPS proceedings (Chapter 48

More information

DRINKING AND DRIVING OFFENCE

DRINKING AND DRIVING OFFENCE What to do if you are charged with a DRINKING AND DRIVING OFFENCE This booklet is not about provincial Motor Vehicle Act penalties for drinking and driving. This guide explains what normally happens when

More information

Understanding the Juvenile Delinquency System

Understanding the Juvenile Delinquency System Understanding the Juvenile Delinquency System 2013 WHO SHOULD READ THIS? The Juvenile Delinquency System is a complicated web of people, agencies, and laws. This pamphlet was written especially for young

More information

Free Legal Consumer Guide Series www.southernmarylandlaw.com

Free Legal Consumer Guide Series www.southernmarylandlaw.com Free Legal Consumer Guide Series Brought To You By Meeting All Your Legal Needs For 50 Years 2 How To Handle A Traffic Ticket HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE If you read this guide, you will discover what you need

More information

... SALT.,LAKE.CITY JUSTICE COURT SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH. ~.f: STATEMENT OF DEFENDANT ENTERING A 'GUlL TY PLEA NOTIFICATION OF CHARGES

... SALT.,LAKE.CITY JUSTICE COURT SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH. ~.f: STATEMENT OF DEFENDANT ENTERING A 'GUlL TY PLEA NOTIFICATION OF CHARGES ,,, ~.f:... SALT.,LAKE.CITY JUSTICE COURT SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH., 0 ~ Name of Defendant Case Number. L STATEMENT OF DEFENDANT ENTERING A 'GUlL TY PLEA z NOTIFICATION OF CHARGES.. '!i... /; I have received

More information

appeals A guide to indictable

appeals A guide to indictable A guide to indictable appeals Understanding the appeals process and how to apply for legal aid What is an indictable appeal? If you are tried or sentenced in either the District or Supreme Courts and you

More information

Forensic Training Manual for Fitness Restoration of Individuals found Unfit to Stand Trial (UST)

Forensic Training Manual for Fitness Restoration of Individuals found Unfit to Stand Trial (UST) Forensic Training Manual for Fitness Restoration of Individuals found Unfit to Stand Trial (UST) * This example training manual should not be used without prior consultation with DMH Forensic Staff to

More information

MAXIMIZING STRIKES FOR CAUSE IN CRIMINAL CASES BY ROBERT R. SWAFFORD

MAXIMIZING STRIKES FOR CAUSE IN CRIMINAL CASES BY ROBERT R. SWAFFORD Maximizing Strikes for Cause MAXIMIZING STRIKES FOR CAUSE IN CRIMINAL CASES BY ROBERT R. SWAFFORD I. INTRODUCTION This paper will introduce an approach to jury selection that is radically different from

More information

WHERE WILL MY CRIMINAL CASE BE DEALT WITH AND WHAT HAPPENS?

WHERE WILL MY CRIMINAL CASE BE DEALT WITH AND WHAT HAPPENS? WHERE WILL MY CRIMINAL CASE BE DEALT WITH AND WHAT HAPPENS? This factsheet relates to those who are 18 or over. If you are 17 or under, please see our separate factsheet for the Youth Court. Where will

More information

Connecting with clients through authentic interactions that not only satisfy their practical needs, but also their emotional

Connecting with clients through authentic interactions that not only satisfy their practical needs, but also their emotional THE FAMILY LAW PROCESS AND ITS REQUIREMENTS Connecting with clients through authentic interactions that not only satisfy their practical needs, but also their emotional wants.! 1. ARRAIGNMENT: Arraignment

More information

Information for Crime Victims and Witnesses

Information for Crime Victims and Witnesses Office of the Attorney General Information for Crime Victims and Witnesses MARCH 2009 LAWRENCE WASDEN Attorney General Criminal Law Division Special Prosecutions Unit Telephone: (208) 332-3096 Fax: (208)

More information

JURY QUESTIONNAIRE [PLEASE PRINT]

JURY QUESTIONNAIRE [PLEASE PRINT] JURY QUESTIONNAIRE [PLEASE PRINT] BACKGROUND INFORMATION Full name: Date of birth: Any other names you have used: City/Area of residence: Place of birth: Are you a citizen of the United States? Yes No

More information

Information about the Criminal Justice System**

Information about the Criminal Justice System** 1 Victim s Guide to the Nebraska Criminal Justice System Information about the Criminal Justice System** ** Please note that the information contained in this booklet is only in relationship to felony

More information

Sexual Assault & The Juvenile Court Process A Guide for Victims/Survivors & Their Families

Sexual Assault & The Juvenile Court Process A Guide for Victims/Survivors & Their Families Sexual Assault & The Juvenile Court Process A Guide for Victims/Survivors & Their Families A publication of Connecticut Sexual Assault Crisis Services, Inc. 96 Pitkin Street v East Hartford, CT v 06108

More information

GETTING THROUGH THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

GETTING THROUGH THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM GETTING THROUGH THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM ARREST An ARREST starts the criminal justice process. It is called an arrest whether the police officer hands you a summons or puts handcuffs on you and takes

More information

BASIC CRIMINAL LAW. Joe Bodiford. Overview of a criminal case Presented by: Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer

BASIC CRIMINAL LAW. Joe Bodiford. Overview of a criminal case Presented by: Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer BASIC CRIMINAL LAW Overview of a criminal case Presented by: Joe Bodiford Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer www.floridacriminaldefense.com www.blawgger.com THE FLORIDA CRIMINAL PROCESS Source: http://www.fsu.edu/~crimdo/cj-flowchart.html

More information