If you are not sure whether you want to plead guilty or not guilty, you can ask the judge to reschedule your initial appearance so you can talk to a lawyer first. Plea – Guilty or Not Guilty? The judge asks if you want to plead guilty or not guilty. A court-appointed lawyer is available only if jail time is possible. You may be required to reimburse the county for all or part of the costs of the court-appointed lawyer. If you ask for a court-appointed lawyer, you fill out a form or the judge asks questions about your finances to make sure you qualify. If you can’t afford one, you can ask the judge for a court-appointed lawyer. Right to Counsel: The judge asks if you want a lawyer. (At this point, the judge is asking only if you understand the charges the judge is not asking if you admit to anything.) If you do not understand the charge or the possible penalties, tell the judge what you don’t understand and the judge will explain. If you do not understand the information in the form, tell the judge what you don’t understand and the judge will explain.Ĭharges and Possible Penalties: The judge tells you the charge(s) and the possible penalties, and asks if you understand them. When your case is called, the judge asks if you have read the form and if you understand your rights. Rights Form: You are given a rights form, which has important information about your legal rights. You should arrive 15 minutes before the time shown on your citation or summons, and check in at the magistrate court clerk’s office. If you are under 18 years of age, you must have a parent or guardian with you at all court proceedings. The citation or summons states a date and time to appear at the county courthouse for your initial appearance. The citation or complaint includes a short statement of the offense with which you are charged, and states that the offense is a misdemeanor. You will have been given a citation, or a complaint and summons. Procedures for the different categories are somewhat different. There are three general types of offenses: felonies (which can be subject to term in a state prison), misdemeanors (which can be subject to up to one year in a county jail), and infractions (which can be subject to a fine up to $100.00, plus court costs). You Have Been Charged with a Misdemeanor – A Brief Guide to What Happens Now You Have Been Charged with a Misdemeanor – A Brief Guide to What Happens Now
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |