Criminal Procedure in Arkansas
There is a 1 in 148 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Arkansas.
The last thing you want to experience is helplessness because of a lack of knowledge and understanding of the law. Although the Natural State has its fair share of safe cities and regions, it’s crucial to know how to respond to a violent crime.
If you experience a violent crime or law enforcement charges arrest you, you must know what constitutes criminal law, what to expect in a court, and how to prepare for a hearing.
What is Criminal Law?
Criminal law is when someone commits a crime, and the state or federal government seeks to punish them for their crimes.
How is Criminal Law Different From Civil Law?
Criminal law and civil law couldn’t be any more different. With criminal law focusing on state/federal versus a defendant, civil law focuses on legislation between two citizens. Although civil law can include crimes, it’s there to resolve a conflict between two individuals.
What to Expect
A common misconception about criminal law is that the police charge you and take you to court. Although officers have many responsibilities in their job, they do not take people to court. An officer makes arrests, investigates crime scenes, collects evidence, and sometimes testifies in court if the case goes that far.
Part of learning what to expect depends on the crime officers charged you with committing. This guide can help you determine where you stand.
Overall, talking with a defense attorney is a great way to figure out what you can expect over several weeks and months, regardless of whether or not your case goes to trial. A legal team can assist you and help you navigate through the complicated process while gaining your freedom back.
How to Prepare
It would be best to prepare for the long haul should your case go to trial. A criminal trial can last several months to years, depending on the severity of the case.
Therefore, you and your attorney must look over all pieces of information, evidence, and documentation to create an airtight case. Here are the first three steps to help you prepare for a criminal trial:
- Get a Lawyer
The best way to navigate the foreseeable future is with a lawyer who understands the law and can help you.
- Tell Your Lawyer Everything
There’s nothing to hide here. As criminal attorneys, we need to know everything if we’re going to help you to the best of our ability.
- Recommend Witnesses and Collect Evidence
Your attorney doesn’t know your life story before you walk through their doors, so you have to help them. Give them witness recommendations and begin collecting evidence to prove your innocence.
Conclusion
Criminal charges are messy, and the trials are convoluted. When preparing for criminal procedures in Arkansas, you must understand the charges and how to prepare for a trial and initial hearing.
If police officers recently charged you or a loved one with criminal charges in the Northwest Arkansas area, reach out to Hickey and Hull Law Partners. Our experienced team is ready and willing to sit with you and discuss your case.