What are the different stages of criminal procedure?

In Washington, criminal procedure typically consists of several different stages. It begins with the investigation or arrest of a suspect by police. During this stage, the police will gather evidence and interview witnesses in order to establish probable cause for the suspect’s arrest. The second stage is a first appearance hearing, where a judge will decide whether the suspect should be held in custody, released on defendant will appear in court when required.">bail, or released without defendant will appear in court when required.">bail. The judge will also set a date for the suspect’s arraignment. The third stage is the arraignment, where a judge will read the charges against the suspect, ask how the suspect pleads, and set the date for the next court hearing. The next stage is a pre-trial hearing, which the defendant, prosecution, and defense attend. At this hearing, the prosecution and defense will have the opportunity to argue motions, review evidence, and discuss potential plea bargains. The fifth stage is the jury trial, where a jury of the defendant’s peers will hear both sides of the case and decide on a verdict of guilty or not guilty. The sixth and final stage is sentencing, where a judge decides the punishment for the defendant. Depending on the crime and the severity of the punishment, the judge may choose to impose a fine, probation, jail time, or even death. Through these different stages, the criminal justice system works to prosecute offenders and ensure justice for victims.

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What are the different stages of criminal procedure?

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