Arrest and Initial Appearance: If the defendant is not already in custody, they will be arrested and brought before a federal magistrate judge for an initial appearance.
Arraignment: The defendant is then arraigned, where they enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
Discovery: Both the prosecution and the defense exchange information and evidence through the discovery process.
Pretrial Motions: The parties may file pretrial motions, such as motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case.
Trial: If the case is not resolved through a plea bargain, it will proceed to trial. A jury will hear evidence and determine the defendant’s guilt or innocence.
Sentencing: If the defendant is convicted, a judge will determine their sentence based on the federal sentencing guidelines and other factors.
Appeal: Either the defendant or the government may appeal the verdict or sentence to a higher court.
Each part of a case has its own unique considerations. GreenClark is here to zealously defend your rights at each turn.