Felony & Misdemeanor Trial Guide
A felony is a major crime for which the penalty is either imprisonment in the county jail or confinement in the state prison. A misdemeanor is a crime punishable by a maximum of one year in jail or a fine of not more than $1,000. The following are procedures beginning after the arrest in a felony or misdemeanor case.
| The Steps | When | Where | Are you required to be there? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arraignment | 1 - 3 days after arrest | Associate Court | No |
*Preliminary Hearing |
20 - 30 days after arraignment | Associate Court | Yes, if subpoenaed or asked to be there |
| *Arraignment | Within 10 days of preliminary hearing | Circuit Court | No |
| Docket Call/Trial Setting | 30 - 40 days after arraignment | Associate Court or Circuit Court | No |
| Pre-Trial Conference | 1 - 2 weeks before trial | Prosecuting Attorney's Office | Please attend if requested |
| Trial | 15 - 45 days after docket call | Associate Court or Circuit Court | Yes |
| Sentencing | 30 - 40 days after verdict or plea | Same courtroom as trial | No, but you may attend and make a statement |
* Not held for misdemeanor cases