THE ARREST - The first thing that happens is a person is arrested. An arrest can come in different ways. One way an arrest can happen is when an officer gives you a PTA (promise to appear).
- Learn More - ................................................................... ARRAIGNMENT - The arraignment is the second time a person appears before a judge. The arraignment typically happens 21 days following an arrest or PTA. At this stage the government attorney decides whether they will file formal charges.
- Learn More - .................................................................... TRIAL - On the trial day a defendant will usually have the option of pleading guilty, if he or she has changed their mind. Sometimes the offers from the State get better at this stage in the game and sometimes the offer get worse.
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