What happens after a criminal trial is complete?

Once the criminal trial is complete, the next step that happens is called sentencing. During this process, the judge will determine a punishment for the defendant, depending on the crime they have been found guilty of. If the defendant was found not guilty or the case was dismissed, then no punishments will be imposed. If the defendant was found guilty, the judge may impose a number of punishments, including incarceration (jail or prison time), fines, probation and/or restitution. In Indiana, the judge has a wide range of options when it comes to determining a sentence. Depending on the crime, the maximum sentence can range from a few years in jail or prison to life in prison. After sentencing has been determined, the next step is the appeals process. This process may be initiated by either the prosecution or the defense. During this process, the defense can challenge the decision of the court and seek to have the conviction reversed or the sentence reduced. At the end of the appeals process, if there has been no change in the outcome, the defendant must serve out their sentence. After the sentence is complete, the defendant is then released and may be subject to parole or other restrictions. Once they have completed all of the requirements and restrictions, they will be released and able to move on with their life.

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