Illinois Criminal Cases Need the Immediate Attention Of A Seasoned Woodridge, Illinois Defense Lawyer
If you were ever arrested for a crime and are later found guilty, you would feel overwhelmed.
You may be unsure about the outcome of your arrest, the process, and what to expect. Many people don’t know much about the criminal justice system and the steps involved in it.
The criminal court process in Illinois is complicated and intimidating. If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to contact a criminal lawyer to discuss your case and to protect your rights to a fair hearing.
Anybody can represent themselves in court. Self-representation is not always successful. If you are a resident of Illinois, Woodridge or the surrounding areas and have been arrested in a criminal case you should immediately contact our experienced criminal case attorney to discuss your facts.
It is vital to have a skilled criminal attorney on your side as soon possible. This will ensure that your case gets the best possible outcome.
What Are the Steps in a Illinois Criminal Case?
Although there are slight differences between states regarding how they handle criminal cases, the basic principles of law and procedure apply to all states. These are the steps for a criminal case in Illinois.
Do You Need an Attorney
Immediately after your arrest, call Wolf & Stec Family Law & Criminal Defense Firm Woodridge, Illinois. We can’t help you unless you call us.
An Investigation Is Imminent
Police investigations are always conducted. The charges will determine the extent of the investigation. The investigation may include a search of your property, business, and home. This investigation may include questioning your family, friends, witnesses, co-workers, and coworkers.
An Arrest Means Probable Cause
If the police have probable cause to arrest you, you will not be taken into custody. The police must give you your Miranda Rights once you have been taken into custody by police. Miranda Rights are defined as “I have the rights to remain silent and I have to call my lawyer.” Wolf & Stec is your criminal defense lawyers. These rights cannot be denied by the police.
Hearings for Bail or Bond
The police will decide if there is enough evidence to bring charges. If sufficient grounds exist, the bond court will hold a hearing to determine your bail amount and release you from jail.
The judge decides whether you are eligible for release. The judge will determine the bond amount and conditions for your release.
Before you go into this phase, it would be a good idea to have us on your side. We can explain why you are eligible to be released and convince the judge to reduce your bond amount. Your custody will be released if you are able to post bond.
Preliminary Hearing vs. Grand Jury Hearing, and Arraignment
A formal charge at a grand jury or preliminary hearing is not enough to bring you under investigation for a crime.
Preliminary Hearing
The prosecution will present a summary of the evidence against you to the judge. The judge will decide if there is sufficient evidence to prove that you have committed the crime for which you are being charged.
Grand Jury Hearing
A grand jury of sixteen people decides your charges. They decide whether there is sufficient evidence against you, and if you have probable cause to be convicted. Indictment is issued if there is enough evidence.
Arraignment
You will then stand in front of the judge and be informed about the formal charges against you and any possible penalties for being found guilty. At this point, you can plead guilty or not guilty.
We would appreciate it if you could have us there at all times. Please call us immediately if you have not called us. The judge will likely delay arraignment until we contact you and hire you to represent you. We prepare your case for trial as soon as you have entered a plea of guilty.
Steps towards Pre-Trial Preparation & Trial
We reserve the right not to be able to examine all of the evidence against you and the facts in your case. Our thorough investigation includes witness statements and police reports. We also examine any physical evidence or securing evidence that could be used at your trial. Photos and videos are included as well.
Our defense strategy for criminal cases is based on all the information we have gathered through our extensive and thorough investigation.
We may begin the Plea Bargain process
Before your verdict is rendered, we will examine when we might negotiate with the prosecution team about a plea deal. Please note that plea bargain terms can vary depending on the severity of your crime, your criminal record, and the amount of evidence available to you.
The Trial Phase
You have the option to choose a bench trial in which the judge decides whether you are innocent or guilty. You can choose to have a jury trial. The jury will decide your fate based upon the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Either way, it is up to the prosecution to prove your guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Time to Verdict
After both the prosecution and defense teams have presented their cases to the judge or jury, each side will need to consider the evidence and then issue their verdict.
If you are found not guilty, then you can go. A guilty verdict will mean that you will have to face the sentencing stage of your case, before a judge or jury.
Sentencing
The judge will impose your sentence if you are found guilty. All information presented to the judge is taken into consideration. All recommendations made by the defense or prosecution teams are taken into account by the judge.
The Appeal Process
You can appeal to an appellate court if you or your Wolf & Stec attorneys believe your case was unfairly sentencing or if you think there were errors in the sentence.
Seasoned Criminal Defense Lawyers at Wolf & Ste c – Woodridge, Illinois
We are experienced and skilled criminal defense lawyers in Illinois. We are available to assist you in protecting your rights if you live in Illinois, Woodridge or the surrounding areas. Wolf & Stec Defense Attorneys have a long history of success in criminal defense cases in Illinois. If you don’t give us a call, we can only get to work.
Steps in A Woodridge, IL Crime Case was first published on Attorney at Law Magazine.