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Steps in a Criminal Case: Arrest to Sentencing

From making bail after an arrest to plea bargain strategies and sentencing guidelines, this section walks you through every key step in a typical criminal case, and lets you know what to expect.

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Articles on Steps in a Criminal Case: Arrest to Sentencing

Bail: Getting Out of Jail After an Arrest
Everything you need to know about posting bail or a bail bond.

Criminal Charges: How Cases Get Started
Learn how police officers and prosecutors initiate criminal cases.

Defendants' Incentives for Accepting Plea Bargains
Common reasons why defendants enter into plea bargains.

Criminal Trial Procedures: An Overview
Most criminal trials follow a uniform set of procedures. Here's a step by step guide to the criminal trial process.

Criminal Sentencing FAQ
Learn how sentences are determined after a criminal conviction.

Sentencing Alternatives: Prison, Probation, Fines, and Community Service
Prison sentences and alternatives to prison for defendants convicted of crimes.

Appeals and the Writ of Habeas Corpus FAQ
What is an appeal? What is a writ of habeas corpus?

Questions on Steps in a Criminal Case: Arrest to Sentencing

Can a 'no contest' plea bite you later in life?

What's the difference between a civil judgment and a criminal conviction?

What does 'tolling' the statute of limitations mean?

What's the difference between probation and parole?

Before the trial, how can the judge order anger management classes?

Is the movie 'Double Jeopardy' based on actual law?