Users' questions

How does a sealed indictment work in a criminal case?

How does a sealed indictment work in a criminal case?

A sealed indictment bypasses a preliminary hearing and the charge is brought directly to a grand jury. The prosecution might use a sealed indictment in drug manufacturing and distribution cases. A sealed indictment is not accessible to the public and the names of any witnesses are kept secret until right before trial.

What happens if a defendant is indicted on bail?

In most states, the defendant or the prosecution can request that the trial occur in front of a jury at this stage. If a defendant is out on bail when he is indicted, unless he has violated the terms of the bail, it will most likely be continued over by the court; meaning that the defendant does not have to pay bail again to remain out of jail.

Can a defendant remain in jail after an indictment?

If a defendant has yet to be arrested, he or she could be following the indictment. For defendants already in jail after their arrest and unable to bail themselves out, they could remain there after an indictment to await trial.

How long does it take to get an indictment for aggravated assault?

Aggravated assault is not at typical federal crime. In addition, federal courts rarely rely on cash bonds. In federal court, the authorities have 30 days to return an indictment from the date of your arrest. But unlike federal court, most states do not require an indictment in order to prosecute you.

How long does it take for indictment in Texas?

If you’re indicted or arrested on charges, the arraignment typically happens within 72 hours. After the arraignment, the court will either prepare for your trial or issue your punishment, depending on how you plead. You’ll want to talk to a lawyer before you make any decisions on your plea in court.

How long does it take to get a bond hearing after an arrest?

How long does it take after someone is arrested to get a bond hearing? A person charged as an adult (not a juvenile) is entitled to a bond hearing within 48 hours of their arrest. Some exceptions do apply for particular criminal charges. There are some crimes that can only be set by a Circuit Court Judge.

Aggravated assault is not at typical federal crime. In addition, federal courts rarely rely on cash bonds. In federal court, the authorities have 30 days to return an indictment from the date of your arrest. But unlike federal court, most states do not require an indictment in order to prosecute you.

Can a person charged as an adult get a bond hearing?

A person charged as an adult (not a juvenile) is entitled to a bond hearing within 48 hours of their arrest. Some exceptions do apply for particular criminal charges. There are some crimes that can only be set by a Circuit Court Judge.