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The Criminal Justice Process
If you have any questions regarding the criminal justice process or your case in particular, do not hesitate to contact the Victim/Witness Unit. We will be happy to assist you!
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Reporting the Crime / Investigation
When a crime is reported to law enforcement, an officer is sent to the crime scene to find out what happened. They will investigate the crime.
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Charging Decision
Once a charging request is sent to our office by law enforcement for review, the report is assigned to one of the Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys.
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Warrant or Summons
If the decision is made to file charges, the defendant will be notified of the charges by either a summons that is sent via the mail or a warrant will be issued for their arrest.
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First Appearance
If a suspect is arrested and held in jail, they are entitled to a hearing before a judge within 72 hours of arrest called a First Appearance.
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Arraignment
Approximately 2 weeks after the First Appearance, the defendant and his/her attorney will be required to appear in court for the Arraignment.
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Meet & Greet
On some crimes, such as violent crimes, you may be contacted by an advocate to meet with the Deputy Prosecuting Attorney assigned to your case.
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Defense Interviews
The defense attorney may wish to interview you regarding your involvement in a case. (RCW 7.69.030)
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Pretrial Conference
The pretrial conference is generally held approximately 2 weeks prior to trial. The attorneys report to the Judge on the progress of their case, if the case is ready for trial or if the case has reached a settlement.
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Change of Plea
Many times the parties will reach a resolution in the case prior to trial, this is called a plea bargain.
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Trial
Trials will be heard either before a judge or jury.
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Verdict
After the evidence is presented at trial, the judge or jury deliberates and reaches a verdict.
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Sentencing
If the defendant changes his/her plea or is found guilty after trial, the case will proceed to sentencing.
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Appeal
If the defendant pleads guilty he/she waives his/her right to appeal. If the case proceeds to trial and the defendant is convicted, he/she has a right to appeal any conviction.
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Restitution
If you are listed as the victim and have had a financial loss because of the crime, you have a right to request restitution.