Stuart Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you face criminal charges, you likely have questions about the legal process and how the case may affect your future. Choosing a knowledgeable Stuart criminal Defense Lawyer is an important decision that can shape how you respond to the charges against you.

At Leifert & Leifert, an experienced criminal Defense Attorney can answer your questions, explain each stage of the case, and fight on your behalf to get the best result possible for you. We offer a free initial consultation and case review to discuss your pending criminal charges.

How Does the Criminal Process Begin?

The criminal process begins when Law Enforcement Officers investigate alleged criminal conduct. If an Officer has probable cause to believe that a crime occurred, they may arrest the person they believe committed it. Law Enforcement Officers will then take that person to jail, photograph them, and record their fingerprints. If Officers arrest you, a criminal defense Attorney in Stuart can explain the next steps and fight on your behalf.

What Are Pre-Trial Proceedings?

After an arrest, a Judge will review the charges and confirm that probable cause exists to move forward with the case. The Judge will also set bond. The Prosecutor will review the case and decide whether to file formal charges. If the Prosecutor files charges, the Defendant will appear at an arraignment, where they will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. It is common for a Defendant to enter a not guilty plea at the arraignment to allow the parties to conduct discovery. During discovery, the Defense Lawyer will receive evidence, including reports, photographs, and videos, and can also file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charges.

During the pre-trial phase, an experienced Lawyer defending criminal charges in Stuart can also enter into plea negotiations with the Prosecutor. The parties may reach a plea agreement that resolves the criminal case without the need for a Trial. However, if the parties cannot reach an agreement, the case will proceed to Trial.

What Happens During the Trial Phase of the Criminal Process?

If the parties are unable to reach a plea agreement, the case will proceed to Trial. During the Trial, the Prosecutor and the defense Lawyer will each present their case to either a Judge or a Jury. The Prosecutor has the burden of proving that the Defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Both sides will make opening statements and then present evidence supporting their positions.

After the parties present the evidence, the Prosecutor and defense Lawyer will make closing arguments and ask the Judge or Jury to find in their favor. The Judge or Jury will then determine whether the Defendant is guilty or not guilty. A Lawyer handling a criminal defense case in Stuart can assist you throughout the Trial and present your defense to the Judge or Jury.

What Is Sentencing in a Criminal Matter?

After you plead guilty or a Judge or Jury finds you guilty after a Trial, the next phase of the process is sentencing. Before sentencing, the Judge may order a Presentence Investigation (PSI), which provides a detailed report about the Defendant’s life and background. The Judge will review the PSI and determine the appropriate sentence or punishment for the crime. A Stuart Lawyer providing criminal defense can assist at the sentencing hearing and ensure the Judge hears from you.

Call a Defense Attorney in Stuart About Your Criminal Case

If you face criminal charges, you likely have questions about what happens next. A knowledgeable Stuart criminal Defense Lawyer can guide you from the bond stage through sentencing and explain each phase of the criminal proceedings.

At Leifert & Leifert, one of our Lawyers will investigate your case, answer your questions, and fight on your behalf to get the best result possible for you. Call us today for a free initial consultation and case review.