Deputy & Mizell

Criminal Defense Points To Keep Top of Mind

Criminal defense is not always a popular subject. You may not find it discussed as much, however it is an important subject matter. You never know what may happen in life and what situation you may find yourself in. That being said, our criminal defense lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here for you. Keep reading this week’s blog for a few criminal defense points to keep top of mind. If you find you have specific questions on this subject, contact us. Your first consultation is free. Deputy and Mizell can be reached at 573-346-9990.


Criminal Defense Points To Keep Top of Mind

IF YOU’VE BEEN ARRESTED…

Generally, you will be brought to the police station and “booked,” which means the police will take personal, historical, and biographical information to see if you have any warrants or criminal history.  

AN ARRAGNMENT HEARING, GRAND JURY INDICTMENT, AND PRELIMIARY HEARING ARE THREE VERY DIFFERENT THINGS…

An arraignment hearing is a court proceeding where the charges against you are read and you are to submit a plea. The arraignment is often called an “initial appearance” because it is typically the first time you appear in court.

Grand jury proceedings are similar to preliminary hearings as they are both for determining whether there is enough evidence to bring criminal charges or an indictment against you. The prosecutor will work with a grand jury to make a decision. In the federal system, a grand jury can be 16 to 23 people. If the case goes to a grand jury indictment, no preliminary hearing is needed.

A preliminary hearing is a “trial before the trial” where the judge decides whether there is enough evidence to force you to stand trial. It involves lawyers on both sides and the judge.  

IF YOUR CASE GOES TO TRIAL…

Every person accused of a crime has an absolute right to a trial by jury. However, most criminal cases are resolved by agreement between the prosecution and the defense, usually during the pre-trial negotiation phase of the case. The purpose of a pre-trial conference is for the prosecutor, your defense attorney, and the judge to meet and discuss a possible plea bargain.   

WHEN A BAIL BOND IS INVOLVED…

Depending on the offense, there may be no need for a bond hearing because Missouri courts have bail schedules that include amounts determined for most misdemeanors. If the bail amount is known, the defendant can either post a cash bond or contact a co-signer or bail bond company to arrange for a surety bond or property bond. More serious felonies require at least an overnight stay for a bond hearing.  

Do You Have Some Criminal Defense Related Questions And You Weren’t Sure Who To Ask?

We get it. If you’re needing a criminal defense attorney in Mid-Missouri, you likely have a ton of questions and you probably don’t know what your next steps should be. That’s where we come in. Sit with one of our experienced attorneys and get the answers you’ve been searching for! Deputy and Mizell can be reached at the Camdenton phone number listed below. Be sure to follow our social media channels listed below as well, to stay up to date on the latest legal topics of discussion.  

 

 

Contact Deputy & Mizell, LLC to schedule your private (FREE) consultation today.

Representing Clients Across the Lake of the Ozarks Region

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