If you're facing a criminal law matter, chances are you have a lot of questions. Understanding how the criminal law process works is crucial to effectively managing your case and knowing what options you have for your defense. Below is a brief introduction to the criminal law process and your place in it.

Getting Stopped

Whether you are stopped while in your vehicle, out in public, or at your front door, this is typically the first step in the criminal law process. Your vehicle cannot be searched without probable cause, and your home cannot be searched without a warrant. You are not under arrest at this point, and you have no obligation to answer any questions you may be asked.

The Arrest

If an officer feels they have enough evidence and cause, they can arrest you. They are required to inform you of your rights under the law. These include your right to remain silent and your right to speak with an attorney. You will then be taken to the police station.

Booking

The next step is booking. This is when you are fingerprinted and photographed before being held in detention. At some point during the arrest or booking, you should be allowed to make phone calls; note the plural form here, as you are allowed to make more than one call. Call a lawyer for legal advice and any friends or family members you want to be apprised of the situation.

Posting Bail or Waiting Until the Hearing

Whether or not you're allowed to post bail will be decided by a number of factors, primarily the nature of the crime with which you've been charged. You will be informed of the bail amount and, if possible, you can make arrangements to pay the required sum. If you do not wish to post bail or bail is denied, you will be held until your first court hearing.

If you're in need of a criminal law attorney, contact the James T. Kratovil Law Offices, PLLC. For more than 25 years, Attorney Kratovil has been serving the Charles Town, West Virginia, area. You can also reach his firm by phone at (304) 728-7718 or via their Facebook page. Trust an experienced defense attorney to help you tackle the charges you're up against.