Federal and state courts have differences and similarities. First and foremost, different crimes are tried in each court. The state has jurisdiction over those that took place in a particular part of the state. On the other hand, the federal government has jurisdiction over crimes that occur on federal property. Examples include bank robberies, crimes at post offices and incidents in national parks. Likewise, the U.S. government prosecutes criminals that cross state lines. An example would be someone who steals cars in one state and transports them to another to sell.
Defendants need a Criminal Attorney in Vernon CT no matter what court they are in. That is because the investigation and prosecution of cases are similar. In the end, the defendant can go to prison. In state court, a prosecutor investigates cases and decides whether to seek an indictment. The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury, and they hand down indictments. If a defendant is indicted, they have an arraignment and enter a plea of guilty or not-guilty. The Criminal Attorney in Vernon CT may try and work out a deal. Negotiating a guilty plea may be in the defendant’s best interest. Often, the prosecutor will agree to a reduced sentence in exchange for the guilty plea.
Federal court procedures are similar. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the jurisdiction. Likewise, the U.S. Attorney prosecutes cases. Most of these cases result from F.B.I. or D.E.A. investigations. One of the major differences in federal court is the judge. A judge is appointed to a case and presides from beginning to end. Additionally, the U.S. government has a faster timetable for trying cases. When a person is arrested, dates are usually set for preliminary hearings, arraignments, and trial.
Federal courts have different sentencing methods, as well. The U.S. Probation Office conducts an investigation on each defendant. A formula is used to determine what sentence each defendant should receive. Also, federal convictions may result in more time behind bars. Individuals convicted in federal court must serve the majority of the sentence. That is why defendants need legal representation to protect their rights. If you have a criminal case, contact Kahan Kerensky and Capossela LLP.
