Facing criminal charges as a first time offender can be very scary. You may be filled with questions. What court proceedings will I go through? Do I need a lawyer? An onslaught of emotions will come as quickly as the questions. Get a step ahead of your fears with the three things you should know about the criminal justice process.

Do I Have Any Options as a First Time Offender?

Depending on the specifics of your case, you may have several options to consider. As a first time offender you are more likely to be considered eligible for rehabilitation, probationary, or intervention programs. These programs are established to help give you the tools and guidance necessary to stay out of trouble in the future. In some cases, after the completion of these programs, charges against you may be reduced or dropped depending on your deal.

What Court Proceedings Will I Go Through?

• Arraignment: Typically held shortly after arrest. At arraignment you will be notified of your rights and bail conditions.
• Preliminary Hearing: Allows the judge to determine if there is substantial evidence with minimal reasonable doubt.
• Discovery and Pretrial Motions: The prosecuting attorney and your lawyer share evidence they each have.
• Plea Hearing: Held when the defendant accepts a plea bargain rather than go to trial.
• Trial: Twelve jurors will be chosen whom, along with the judge, hear arguments for and against your guilt and make a decision based on evidence and testimonies held during trial.
• Sentencing Hearing: Your final court appearance, if you have been found guilty or plead no contest, is your sentencing hearing.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

While you may have a clean criminal history prior to your arrest at your advantage, it is highly recommended to obtain legal counsel. In the United States alone, 2.2 million people are in prison or jail. Why risk being another statistic? A lawyer will advocate for your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Having a lawyer on your side will give you a higher chance of rehabilitation programs, reduced sentencing, and even possible expungement of your criminal case.

As a first time offender facing criminal charges it can be a scary process, but you don’t have to go it alone. Whether it’s a DMV hearing attorney or an expert defense attorney, with the right help you’ll be through your little predicament with as little stress as possible.

This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for business, finance, and family issues. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find Dixie on Facebook.