1. Steps in the Criminal Justice Processes

2. Steps in the Criminal Justice Process (Adult)
Arrest
Booking – official record of the arrest
Initial Appearance – magistrate provides the following: explanation of the charge, bail, attorney (if indigent – means poor).
Preliminary Hearing – a magistrate determines if probable cause is present
Grand Jury (Indictment) – 16 to 23 citizens – determines if there is enough evidence to charge the suspect.
Arraignment – (Superior Court) – charges are read and a plea is entered
Plea Bargain - plead to a lesser charge.
Trial – jury selection, opening statements, presentation of the case, closing statements, deliberation and verdict.
Sentencing
Appeal

3. Steps in the Juvenile Justice Process
Arrest (parents are notified)
Get released or be detained (detained means to keep under arrest – can be put in a Youth detention Center)
If detained:
Probable Cause Hearing – within 2 days. A judge decides between release or further detainment.
Petition is filed – this outlines the charges
Adjudicatory Hearing – A judge decides if the charges are true.
If the charges are found to be true:
Dispositional Hearing – A judge decides course of treatment, type of supervision, or rehabilitation. Could also be probation.
If the charges are severe, the case will be transferred to a superior court where the child will be tried as an adult.