If you’ve been arrested for the first time, you may be worried about what’s going to happen next. While all cases are different, they generally follow the same pattern: arrest, charged with the crime, hearings, and then sentencing if you’re found guilty. In order to ensure you get a good result for your case, whether that means being found not-guilty or having a reduced sentence, you’re going to want to hire a lawyer as soon as possible.
Following your arrest, you’ll be charged with one or several crimes. This lets you know what you’re accused of and gives you a better idea of how serious the charges are. Misdemeanors are generally lesser crimes punishable by less than a year in jail. Felony charges are generally more serious crimes and are punishable by more than a year in jail. Once you’ve been charged, you may be given a bail amount. You can pay this directly in many cases or you can have help from a bondsman if you cannot afford the bail. When you’re released on bail, you’re going to want to hire a criminal attorney in Carmel NY as soon as possible.
The next step is going to be your hearings. Typically, the most important hearing will be where you plead guilty or innocent. If you plead guilty, or you plead innocent but are found to be guilty at trial, your next step will be your sentencing. This is where the judge determines the punishment for the crime you committed. This can include community service, jail, fines, probation, and other types of sentences. Your attorney can explain the sentences you receive so you understand them fully. This will be the end of your case, provided you complete all the requirements of your sentencing.
If you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime, contact a criminal attorney in Carmel, NY as quickly as possible. They’ll be able to explain each step to you and let you know what your options are. To find an attorney to help you today, visit the website of a trusted attorney in the area. They’re going to get started on your case as soon as you hire them.
