THE STEPS IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM!

Pre-Pre Trial Activities Arrest/Investigation: person taken into custody; made by the police; advised of rights (Miranda warnings) -Warrant: issued by judge and provides the legal basis for an apprehension or search by police

Pre-Pre Trial Activities 2. Booking: after arrest, pictures taken; finger prints made; personal information is given; advised of rights again

Pre Trial Activities 1. First Appearance: suspect is brought before a judge; judge explains the charges, may or may not be released -Bail bonds- the money (or property) given to the court for the release of the person, pledge that the person will return; bail refunded if shows up for court data

Pre Trial Activities- In some states…. 2. Preliminary Hearing: establish with enough evidence exists against a person to continue the process, competency? Is there probable cause? Facts that would influence a person to believe that a specified person committed the crime Information- formal written accusation that someone committed a crime is reviewed

Pre Trial Activities- In other states… 2. Grand Jury: usually 23 citizens who hear evidence presented. Eliminate cases for which there is no sufficient evidence -Indictment- formal written accusation submitted to a court, alleging that someone committed a crime

Pre Trial Activities 3. Arraignment: hearing before a court in which the accused is identified; informed of the charge; told his or her rights; enters a plea (guilty or not guilty??) -Plea Bargaining- negotiating an agreement to reduce trial process

Trial Activities 1. Trial: examination in court of the issues and relevant law in a case to prove guilty or innocent; more TBA.

Post Trial Activities 1. Sentencing: if convicted, the type of punishment, for major crimes -Consecutive- if someone is found guilty of more than one charge, they may be ordered to sever one sentence after another -Concurrent- if found guilty of more than one charge, their sentences will run at the same time -Probation- release of an offender with supervision

Post Trial Activities Sentencing for misdemeanors: - Probation -Fines -Community service -Drug or alcohol rehabilitation

Post Trial Activities 2. Corrections: facility where the offenders stay -Parole- time of leave from prison after a portion of their sentence has been served