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SOUTH JERSEY LEGAL BLOG

A basic overview of the legal process

Posted by Saul Steinberg | Nov 18, 2020 | 0 Comments

If you are charged with a crime, it doesn't mean that you are guilty. However, you do have the right to plead guilty or no contest if you feel that it is in your best interest to do so. You'll likely want to know what you can expect to happen after being taken into custody by New Jersey authorities.

Enter a plea

During an arraignment, you will be given an opportunity to plead guilty, not guilty or no contest to any charges that you face. If you plead guilty or no contest, a sentencing date will be scheduled. However, if you plead not guilty, a trial date will be set. There is a chance that you will be released from custody until your case is resolved.

Go through the legal process

Typically, a defendant is freed immediately after being found not guilty by a jury. However, if you are found guilty, you will be required to take part in an evaluation designed to help the judge craft a fair sentence. On the sentencing date, the judge will announce the final disposition in the case. The final disposition will list your plea, the details of your punishment and any other important notes. For instance, it might state that you entered a guilty plea and were sentenced to 30 days in jail with credit for time served.

A criminal defense attorney may be able to help you obtain a favorable outcome in your case whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Legal counsel might get evidence suppressed or cast doubt upon evidence used during a trial. This may be enough to earn a full acquittal or to create leverage to negotiate a plea deal that keeps you out of jail or prison.

About the Author

Saul Steinberg

Saul J. Steinberg was born and raised in Camden, NJ. He has practiced in Camden County since first being admitted to the bar. Since 1990, he has also handled cases in Southeastern Pennsylvania.The emphasis of Saul's practice is in Criminal and Civil litigation. He has handled major criminal and c...

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