Here is what you need to know about the first steps in a felony case.
A felony charge can be scary, anxiety-provoking, and mere allegations can have severe consequences. The more you know about the process, the better decisions you can make in your defense.
I. The Criminal Activity and Police Investigation
The first step in a case is the investigation by the police. The police will begin collecting evidence and questioning potential witnesses. After the police have gathered as much information as possible about a crime, they will analyze the evidence and determine if, in their judgment, they should present their evidentiary package to a prosecutor. However, it should be noted that the police may arrest anyone if they can articulate facts amounting to probable cause, and of course, they can arrest anyone they see commit a crime. After the police investigate the case and if it goes to court, you will undoubtedly wonder, “what happens in district court on a felony charge?”
II. The Prosecutor’s Decision
The police do not choose who to charge; the prosecutor does. If a prosecutor believes the police evidentiary package establishes probable cause to believe a crime has been committed, the prosecutor determines whether they have enough admissible evidence to charge someone. If so, the prosecutor authorizes a warrant against the defendant.
III. The “Swear To,” Authorization, and Arrest in District Court
Once the prosecutor authorizes a warrant, a police officer takes the warrant to a district court judge or magistrate and “swears to” the warrant. The officer must make a record establishing probable cause for an arrest. If satisfied, the judge then grants the warrant, and then the police are entitled to make an arrest. If a case is not of high seriousness, the police may send a letter to the defendant or call them on the phone. If the police believe the defendant is a danger to the public, they will immediately find the defendant and arrest them.
IV. Booking When the Defendant is Arrested on a Felony
After an arrest is made, the police take the defendant to the police station in the city where the crime took place and “book” them. This means the defendant is photographed, fingerprinted, and personal information is gathered about the defendant, assuming the defendant agrees to provide any information. When the defendant has been booked, the defendant is brought before a judge if the court is in session. If not, the defendant is lodged in jail until a judge is available.
V. Arraignment on a Felony in District Court
When the defendant is brought before a judge, the judge tells the defendant precisely what they have been charged with. The judge then asks the defendant how they plead to the charge. If a defendant refuses to say anything, a “not guilty” plea will be entered. In the vast majority of cases, the defendant pleads not guilty. A not guilty plea is similar to a starting gun: it starts the legal adversarial process.
It is at this time that the judge addresses bond. Frequently, the police will be questioned by the judge so the judge can assess what kind of bond to put in place. In particularly noteworthy or serious cases, the prosecutor will be present to attempt to ensure a bond is set, which will ensure the defendant stays in jail or will return to court when ordered. At this stage, the defendant is also asked if they want a court-appointed attorney or if they will retain an attorney.
A defendant charged with a felony may plead guilty to a felony in district court (city or municipal courts). However, a circuit judge (county judge) must sentence the defendant on the conviction. District courts do not have the authority to sentence a defendant for a crime that carries a potential penalty of over 1 year in jail.
After the plea is entered, the judge or magistrate will determine the bond after hearing from the detective, the prosecutor (if present), and the defense lawyer (or the defendant if they are unrepresented). The best type of bond is called a personal bond. A personal bond does not require the deposit of money with the court or jail to secure the defendant’s release on bail. The judge or magistrate can also order a cash bond, a 10% bond, or a surety bond. Every type of bond will include various terms and conditions, like a prohibition against
VI. Felony Probable Cause Conference in District Court
A probable cause conference (PCC) is a court date where the prosecution and defense meet and discuss possible plea bargains, procedural matters, discovery, and bond issues. The PCC is required to take place 7-14 days after arraignment. A PCC happens in district court on every felony case charged in Michigan.
VII. Preliminary Examination in District Court
The preliminary examination is a hearing where the prosecution must elicit testimony and produce evidence establishing that a crime was committed and probable cause to believe the defendant committed it. The preliminary exam must take place within 5-7 days of the PCC.
The prosecution does not need to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt at the preliminary exam. If the judge is satisfied that the prosecution has met its burden of proof, the case will be “bound over” to the circuit court in the county where the crime occurred.
Michigan’s Premier Felony Criminal Defense – We can help you understand what happens in district court on a felony case.
If you are a suspect in a criminal investigation or charged with a felony or misdemeanor, your situation is serious, and you must seek to protect yourself in the best way possible. A criminal conviction will likely affect all aspects of your life for years and should be avoided if possible. The Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has been successfully defending clients in Michigan for decades, and we provide a free consultation and confidential case evaluation. Do not get railroaded! If you are wondering what happens in district court on a felony case, you can call us for a free consultation, and we will take the time to talk with you, answer your questions, and address each of your concerns.
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.
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