At Gounaris Abboud, LPA, our Kettering criminal defense lawyers are here to fight for you. Our experienced team will work to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
If you’ve been arrested or cited in Centerville, Moraine, Washington Township, or Kettering, you will be required to appear in the Kettering Municipal Court located 2325 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, Ohio.
How Does the Criminal Defense Process Work?
The criminal defense process is rife with complications. If you face charges, it is prudent to understand how the system works.
Our criminal defense lawyers in Kettering, OH, can help further explain this process and answer your questions. Consider giving us a call at (937) 222-1515.
Investigation and Arrest
After police arrest an individual, the officers bring them to the jail in their area. Police will then take fingerprints and photograph the accused.
A prosecutor will decide whether to file criminal charges against the individual.
It’s important to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you know you are being investigated for or charged with a crime.
This is because, in these first steps of the process, anything you say can be used against you.
Arraignment
Next is the arraignment process. If the accused has not previously requested or hired a lawyer, the court will usually appoint one when this process begins.
An arraignment is the first time the alleged offender goes to court.
The accused’s charges will likely be read at the arraignment. Then, the accused will have to enter a plea. This is typically a quick proceeding.
Discovery and Plea Bargaining
Discovery and plea bargaining are the next steps of the process. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will file motions for discovery during this time.
Both sides must comply with the rules of discovery as this procedure continues. The attorney can talk to the defendant about these rules as needed.
Take note that the client should refrain from filing their own motions when they are represented by an attorney.
Preliminary Hearing
The next phase in the criminal defense process is a preliminary hearing. This hearing usually takes place within 10 days of arraignments in a felony case.
Pre-Trial Hearing
The idea behind a pre-trial hearing is to try to get both parties to come to a plea agreement. This can keep a potential trial from being necessary.
Remember that no attorney or anyone else can require that you plead guilty or sign a plea agreement.
However, our Kettering criminal defense lawyers will look out for your best interests and help you understand your options.
Criminal Trial
A criminal trial can be extremely arduous. The parties can both give an opening statement at the beginning.
The parties can then both present evidence. Afterward, each party can give closing arguments.
Once the judge gives the jury instructions at the end of a trial, the jury will eventually deliver a verdict. In a criminal case, the jury will consist of twelve individuals.
Appeals
You may be able to file an appeal if the jury convicts you. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you through every step. Note that this might be more difficult if you pleaded guilty.
You will have only a short time to file a notice of appeal after the judgment. If you miss the deadline, you may be unable to file an appeal altogether.
