Are you wondering what happens after an indictment? When you’re indicted, you’ll receive notice that they are charging you. Investigators will gather evidence, and prosecutors will determine what charges they pursue. If the prosecution has concluded there is enough evidence to potentially go forward, then you’ll be indicted.
If that happens, naturally, you want to know what the process looks like and what to expect. So in this post, we’ll explain what happens after a grand jury indictment so you can make the right arrangements to protect yourself or your loved ones during the legal process.
Read More: Finding A Good Criminal Defense Attorney
How Do Indictments Happen?
A grand jury will be impaneled before you’re indicted for a crime. They’ll make the decision to proceed with an indictment or not. From here, a prosecutor will have a mini evidentiary hearing and submit evidence to the grand jury to attempt to show that you committed the crime in question.
These are secret proceedings, and no lawyers are allowed to be inside during this process with you. However, you are allowed to have a lawyer outside so you can ask questions in terms of your testifying. Let’s get into what happens after you are indicted below.
What Happens After A Felony Indictment From A Grand Jury?
You could be arraigned before a judge. A warrant may be issued for your arrest if you’re not already in custody. During your arraignment, the judge will read your indictment to you out loud.
You cannot speed up or waive this process. From here, you will be required to submit either a guilty or not guilty plea. If there is no bond set for you, then it will be set at this time, and you will be in the custody of the local sheriff.
Because an evidentiary hearing was already held before the grand jury, you won’t have access to a preliminary hearing. Conversely, your case will then be set for trial, and your lawyer will be presented with discovery.
At this point, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss plea deals, converse with the district attorney, and prepare for your trial.
What To Do If You’ve Been Indicted
A grand indictment means that there is likely strong evidence that you committed the charges in question. Whether or not you did commit it does not necessarily affect whether or not you are indicted.
Your opportunity to prove that you are not guilty comes when you can bring a lawyer into the process. That’s why it’s important to hire a qualified, experienced criminal defense lawyer in Minneapolis.
What Happens After Being Indicted? Consult With An Attorney
Lynn Torgerson is a highly-rated criminal defense attorney. With almost 30 years of experience, Lynn can represent you against indictments, felonies, gross misdemeanors and demeanors anywhere in Minnesota. Reach out today and get the representation that you deserve.