Reputable Criminal Lawyer Yakima Explains The Stages Involved In A Criminal Trial

By Linda Stone


If you have been charged with a criminal offense and you are facing trial, it will be crucial for you to get well acquainted with how the process works. It goes without saying that information is power and it will be necessary for you to be proactive on every step of the way. Due to the numerous complexities that revolve around criminal litigation, the importance of having a skilled attorney in your corner should not be underestimated. During research for the best criminal lawyer Yakima would be a good place to begin your hunt.

The whole legal process is set in motion the instant you are arrested. An arrest typically happens after the judge issues an arrest warrant after affirming that there is probable cause that you committed a criminal offense. You will have the right not to speak a word to anyone but your attorney.

Once you are officially charged, you will be scheduled to appear for an initial court hearing. The kind of charges you are facing will be explained by the sitting judge and he or she will also inform you about your rights, the bail amount and various other crucial aspects that ought to be addressed immediately. Depending on your jurisdiction, the initial hearing and an arraignment can be done at the same time, where you can enter a guilty or not guilty plea.

The preliminary hearing then takes place and the state will provide proofs and evidences that backs up the charges you are facing. Even though this is done administratively in certain states, there are states where an official court hearing must be held. Yakima is in the state of Washington, and a preliminary hearing will therefore take place in court.

Attorneys from both sides share evidence through the discovery and pretrial process. Substantial information about your case is at this point revealed and the involved legal counsel can file various motions as part of the pretrial process. The filed motions will be based on the information that is unveiled. For instance, a motion can be filed to suppress or dismiss specific pieces of evidence.

The trial process unfolds in different segments. It begins with the opening statements and the presentation of evidence follows. From this point, the witnesses are called upon to give their testimonies and then the closing statements are made. At this point, your case will be left to the jury who will have the responsibility of delivering a verdict. The final component of a formal trial is the sentencing stage, which typically happens on a different date.

Based on how your case unfolds, you could be found guilty or not guilty. In case you are found guilty of a specific crime, you will have the right to file an appeal. Your attorney will ensure that all legalities are honored and the proper channels are adhered to. You can make an appeal only if you had pleaded not guilty.

It is in your best interests to work with a proficient criminal lawyer who can advocate for your rights and your best interests. The expert will provide priceless guidance through each step of the way. He or she will ensure that you have a good chance of enjoying a suitable outcome.




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