Sanction
Investigation
Arrest
Booking
Trial
Grand jury or information
Release
Appeals
Arraignment
Initial appearance
Sentencing
Preliminary hearing
During this stage the prosecution is expected to prove beyond a reasonable doubt the defendant committed the offense or offenses with which he or she is charged.
Hearing held to determine the sanctions for a convicted individual.
What happens after individuals have completed their sanctions.
Judge determines if probable cause exists to suggest the suspect committed a crime in the judge's jurisdiction.
Focuses on whether a crime was committed, who is suspected of committing the crime, whether an arrest is warranted, and when an arrest should occur.
Initial step in the formal processing of a case.
The opportunity to challenge the court's ruling.
The suspect if formally notified of the charges, advised of his or her legal rights, and asked whether he or she wants to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
Prison, jail, community supervision
To formally record the arrest
The purpose of this stage is to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to suggest the case should proceed to trial.
The suspect appears before a magistrate or similar official and is formally notified of the charges, advised of their rights, and notified of bail decisions (in some jurisdictions).
