Arrest
The police may arrest the suspect and hold that person in jail until they can post bail. A suspect may also be cite-released with the guarantee that they will appear back in court on a set date.
Arraignment
If charges are filed the defendant will be brought to court to hear the charges. A defendant may plead guilty at this time; the case will be closed and probation orders will be set. If the defendant pleads not guilty, a trial date will be set by the judge. The defendant may be released from jail on their own recognizance or on bail or may be held in jail until trial.
Preliminary Hearings
Prosecution presents evidence to the judge to show that a crime was committed. If the judge agrees the prosecution continues to the trial court level. If the judge does not agree the charges will be dropped.
Pretrial Hearings & Motions
Pretrial is to solve any outstanding issue before the case goes to trial. Motions may also be filed.
Jury Trial
Prosecution and Defense will present evidence and call witness in front of a judge. A jury will examine the evidence and return a verdict.