From the beginning of human civilization, leaders of a group or a tribe had already set the standard for addressing criminal behavior, which people now call criminal law. It is based on their religious belief or culture, the nature of punishments imposed on those individuals that committed crimes in the society. 

Today, criminal law evolved through the experiences of those past civilizations together with the criminal justice system. The nature of almost all criminal justice systems worldwide is a humane way of a highly civilized society. 

Apprehension of law enforcement agencies has an acceptable standard that respects and protects human rights. The court system has the means to deliver a fair and just process and decisions based on the instituted criminal law and other supporting laws, especially human rights law for the citizens under the criminal case litigation process. More details at  https://www.MedlinFirm.com

Law Enforcement

Investigation
One of the duties of the local police department is to investigate most of the reported crimes except other crimes such as public health-related crimes, criminal non-support, etc., which are with designated authorities to handle. They will conduct interviews with victims, witnesses, and suspects. 

Also, collecting physical evidence, photographing, measuring crime scenes, or even preserving the scene for further investigation. The police report is based on the initial investigation.   

Warrantless Arrest Or File An At Large Report
When committing a crime in the presence of a police officer, or he has probable cause to believe that an individual committed a specific crime, the police are to submit the arrest report or, otherwise, an “at the large report”.

Court Process

Indictment
The felony charges need a presentation to the grand jury of its evidence to convince them to agree that there is probable cause to file the case in court. Must have nine votes out of twelve to have the lawsuit filed in court.

Arrest Warrant
When the complaint is granted by the grand jury to be filed in court, then the judge will sign the arrest warrant to bring the accused before the court if not yet in the custody of the local police through warrantless arrest. 

In this instance, the accused could apply for a bail bond at the judge's discretion. It is based on the severity of the case to determine the amount to be granted.   

Arraignment
In Texas, arraignment should be within 48 hours after your arrest. You are informed of the charges filed against you and all your rights pertaining to your case. You will be given a copy of the complaint. They will explain to you the punishments when proven guilty. 

Moreover, you will know the consequences of the options you made on your plea. Then the judge will give you time to consult your counsel for your decision on how you plead. 

Pre-Trial Hearings
This could be done between meeting your counsel and the prosecution.

They will take up the strengths and weaknesses of your case—time for your counsel to present your mitigating circumstances as the bases of your plea bargaining.

Plea Bargaining
This is the essential matter worked out by your criminal defense lawyer when guilt is evident on your part. For you, the chance to have a favorable judgment when cooperating with the prosecutor. Or even to be freed of charges in an instance of being a state witness. 

Trial
If you pleaded not guilty or your council doesn't agree with the prosecution on your plea bargain, your case proceeds to trial. 

Sentence
When proven guilty or pleaded guilty, the defendant must be sentenced by the court for their crime. Your punishment is in consideration of how you claim and the mitigating circumstances in determining its extent, whether probation, prison, house arrest, or fines.   

Appealing The Case Verdict
If the defendant is unsatisfied with the decision, you can appeal to the appellate court. For the appeal to be possible, you must show evidence of improper procedure during the previous trial. 

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The Medlin Law Firm in TradeFord
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The Medlin Law Firm 
1300 S University Dr #318
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(682) 204-4066