Being arrested is emotional and stressful, and it’s easy to get distracted and be confused by the process. That’s why it’s important to have a quality defense attorney to not only help you achieve the best possible outcome, but to simply explain what’s going on. 

In general, here are the steps to expect if you’re accused of a crime:

• Arrest: Unless there is a warrant out for your arrest, you’ll be taken into police custody before you’re charged with a crime. The officer will write a report detailing the arrest and file it with a prosecutor. Turnaround time can be a matter of days, so it’s imperative to contact a defense attorney immediately. Depending on the charges, your lawyer can request you be released or allowed to put up bail before a court hearing is scheduled.
• Plea: You will be asked to plead “not guilty,” “no contest,” or “guilty” prior to a trial. A criminal defense lawyer can assess your case and help you choose the best option. If you plead “guilty,” you will be sentenced immediately or shortly thereafter. A “not guilty” plea will result in a court date being set, giving you additional time to work with your defense attorney on a plan.
• Trial: At your court date, your case will be presented to a judge and potentially a jury, if the crime warrants one. While in court, you will plead your case with the aid of your defense attorney, and your sentence will be decided. If you are found not guilty, you will be free to go; otherwise, you will receive a sentence based on the nature of your crime. 

It’s crucial to hire an attorney as soon as possible. Every detail of an arrest is essential to your case, and a defense attorney at James T. Kratovil Law Offices, PLLC can help you through each step of the process. If you or a loved one needs help, call them at (304) 728-7718. You can visit their website and Facebook page for further details about their services.