In a previous post we discussed the misdemeanor court process. The misdemeanor process is far less complicated than the felony process. The felony court process is complex, confusing with possibilities and potential outcomes as broad as the judicial system itself.
Once you have been arrested for a felony the best advice anyone can offer you is wait. Be patient. Do not take the first deal that is offered at a first appearance or arraignment. A felony conviction will follow you for the rest of your life and will hinder your civil liberties. Getting a felony case “over with” quickly is not always the best suggestion.
After arrest and before you are released from jail you will see a judge. This process is usually handled via court monitor straight from the jail. The charge against you will be read and you will then be instructed as to your bond, if any, and your next court date. Your next court date will be a plea or arraignment day. You will not have to make any decisions at this court appearance. If you have not hired an attorney or you have the public defender, you must be present.
Your private attorney or public defender will enter a not guilty plea and your case will be set on the court docket. This does not mean you have to go to trial. What a not guilty plea does mean is that you have elected to review all information (or Discovery) the State has against you. It is your right to see this information. Do not give up your right and enter into a plea agreement ill advised.
From this point you will have approximately 3-4 weeks to meet with a private attorney and determine who you want representing your interest.
The court appearances for felony break down as follows:
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Calendar Status Meeting-This is designed for the attorneys, prosecutors and judge. You will not have to attend. This is more for judicial economy and case “housekeeping”. Nothing is decided at this appearance.
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Docket Day-This is the last court date before you decide to go to trial or accept a negotiated plea. You must be present for this hearing.
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Trial-This is the trial date set by the Court. You must be present for all trial proceedings.
If you or a family member has been arrested in Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, Niceville, Navarre, Milton, or anywhere in Okaloosa County or Santa Rosa County, please call me 24/7 for a free consultation. I can be reached 24/7 at (850) 243-6097. I will help you get your life back on track.
