Arraignments

Criminal Defense Lawyers in Marysville

After you are arrested and charged for a criminal offense, the first step in the criminal proceedings is an arraignment. This initial appearance is important for anyone facing a potential conviction and legal counsel should be consulted as soon as possible before a plea is entered. The Marysville criminal defense attorneys at Beck Peistrup, LTD help those facing charges determine what plea makes the most sense for them, as well as discussing lesser offenses that may be offered with the prosecution. Our firm offers comprehensive and communicative legal representation for clients throughout the criminal process. We develop defense plans tailored to each situation to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Beck Peistrup, LTD represents those accused of crimes throughout Central Ohio including Marysville, Bellefontaine, Dublin, Delaware, and London. Please contact us today to find out more about our legal services.

Arraignments in Ohio

In Ohio, arraignments are the first appearance an individual makes after being charged with a criminal offense. At this stage, the accused is informed of the charges being brought against them such as if it is an OVI//DUI, theft, or a sexual offense. They are also told what their constitutional rights are at this stage. At the arraignment, a plea also must be entered. When deciding on which plea to render, it is important to know what is at stake for each. Seeking the advice of a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer in Marysville who can help you weigh your options is recommended before making this determination. Plea options and what they mean are as follows:

• ‘Not Guilty’ states that the facts and allegations are untrue and the accused did not commit the crime alleged.
• ‘Guilty’ is admitting the accused did commit the crimes being alleged.
• ‘No Contest’ states the accused did not commit the crimes alleged but also cannot refute the charges.

At an arraignment, the judge also determines whether bail should be set and the amount. Generally, judges do not have the authority to dismiss charges at the arraignment stage. However, prosecutors do have that authority and can choose to dismiss only with a compelling reason. If the defense attorney and prosecutor agree on a plea deal, some charges may also be dismissed during an arraignment. In Ohio, certain aspects of charges can also be changed following an arraignment. Courts have the ability to fix mistakes or errors in an indictment, or other official filing, but cannot change the type of crime being charged.

Next Stages Following Arraignments

If you’ve been charged with a felony at an arraignment, you have the right to a preliminary hearing. These generally occur within ten days of an initial appearance. At this stage, the defense can request that the intended evidence to be used be presented. It also gives the defense an opportunity to cross-examine witnesses for the prosecution as well as present their own counter- Arraignments evidence. Following these presentations, the judge will decide if there is sufficient probably cause to move forward. The subsequent stages of the criminal process for either felonies or misdemeanors may include various pre-trial hearings as well as both sides engaging in plea negotiations. Cases that do not reach a plea agreement will go to trial. Because of the impact these proceedings have on the outcome of a criminal case, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney as your advocate as soon as possible.

Marysville Criminal Defense Lawyers

Beck Peistrup, LTD has extensive experience representing Marysville clients in their criminal proceedings. Our defense attorneys are dedicated to making sure those facing criminal action are kept informed of their legal options throughout every stage and prioritize open communication, so you feel secure in your representation. If you have questions following an arrest and need legal assistance for upcoming hearings or trial, contact our office either online or at (937) 889-9999 today. We represent clients across Central Ohio, including Marysville, Bellefontaine, Dublin, Delaware, and London in all types of criminal cases.