The stages of criminal court in North Carolina take time. And the hardest part is being patient with the criminal court process and understanding how it operates. Let’s go through the steps together which help you have a better understanding of how this all works:

1. Arrest: The first stage of a criminal case in North Carolina is usually the arrest of the suspect by law enforcement officers. This may occur at the scene of a crime, or after an investigation. In Greensboro, NC, sometimes you will receive notice of a Warrant for Arrest or a Criminal Summons. It’s vital you call us as soon as you receive this document.

2. Magistrate: The Magistrate Judge in Guilford County will be the first person to set the conditions of release for your case. They may give you a written promise, but if you have a gun charge or a domestic violence crimes, they may place you under a hold.

3. First Appearance: Generally, the next available weekday you will have a first appearance if were not able to afford your bond or you were placed under a hold. Your first appearance will be in front of a District Court Judge who can modify the pre-trial release conditions set by the magistrate.

4. District Court: In District Court, our criminal lawyers do not have a right to discovery, or the police reports, body worn camera, etc, connected to your case. We generally will continue your case to the law enforcement officers court date to speak with them and to see if they will allow for us to watch their BWC.

5. Indictment: People dread the word indictment, but for a lot of felony charges, you are practically guaranteed to get indicted. An indictment is when the grand jury decides the State of North Carolina has enough evidence to move forward with the case in Superior Court.

6. Discovery: If a case is indicted to Superior Court in North Carolina, then this will be the first time you will have a right to the discovery in your case which includes the police reports, body worn camera, witness statements, lab reports, etc.

7. Plea Negotiations: The defense and prosecution may engage in plea negotiations to resolve the case without going to trial.

8. Pretrial Motions: Our Criminal Attorneys may file pretrial motions to exclude certain evidence, challenge the constitutionality of the charges, or request a change of venue.

9. Trial: If the case does not resolve through plea negotiations, it will proceed to trial. The trial will involve jury selection, opening statements, presentation of evidence, witness testimony, closing arguments, and the verdict.

10. Sentencing: If the defendant is found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include fines, probation, community service, or imprisonment.

11. Appeals: If the defendant is convicted, they may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court.

It is important to note that the specific stages of a criminal case may vary depending on the charges, the court, and other factors. Our Top Rated Criminal Defense Lawyers can guide you through the process and protect your legal rights.