When an individual is arrested for theft, the key steps of the process involve several critical stages. A skilled attorney guides you on the following steps:
Booking
After an arrest, law enforcement officers inform you of your rights and transport you to a police station. They take your fingerprints there, photograph you, and formally document the arrest. This process creates an official record of the incident and your detention.
Arraignment
At the arraignment, you will face a judge within a specific timeframe, usually within 24 to 48 hours of your arrest. They will formally read the charges against you and determine whether to release you on bail or keep you in detention until the trial.
At this stage, you will be officially charged and requested to enter one of the three pleas: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This hearing is pivotal in your case, as your plea will influence the subsequent legal proceedings.
Pretrial Proceedings
During this phase, the defense and prosecution exchange evidence and file pretrial motions. The court may address issues such as the admissibility of evidence or potential legal defenses before the trial commences.
Trial
If a plea agreement is not reached, the case goes to trial. During the trial, witnesses testify, evidence is presented, and both sides make closing arguments. The jury then discusses and reaches a verdict. Trials are complex and demand thorough preparation and a compelling presentation of your defense to achieve a favorable outcome.
Sentencing
After the prosecution and defense present their arguments, the judge imposes a sentence depending on the crime’s severity and the defendant’s criminal history. Factors considered include the value of the stolen property, aggravating or mitigating circumstances, sentencing guidelines, victim impact, and potential for rehabilitation. The sentence may involve fines, probation, community service, or imprisonment.
Navigating each stage of the legal process requires careful planning and a strong defense strategy. Working closely with a theft attorney ensures that your rights are protected and you are entirely prepared for each phase of the process.
The Irving Law Firm
9253 Mosby St., 2nd Floor
Manassas, VA 20110
(703) 844-4118
https://www.TheIrvingLawFirm.com/