Your Rights After Being Charged With a Crime

Know Your Legal Rights in Texas

If you are charged with a crime in a state court, you have certain rights of which you should be aware. You do not have to make any statements, nor should you without talking to your lawyer. You shouldn't even divulge details of your case to family or friends. If you are being charged with a felony, you may request that your trial be held in front of a grand jury, which consists of a group of citizens deciding if there is probable cause to believe that you committed a crime. If, on the other hand, you are arrested before an indictment is returned, you may request an examining trial before a judge.

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If there is a possibility of you being put in jail if you are convicted, you have the right to an attorney and if you cannot afford an attorney, the state will provide one for you. The state, of course, must prove your guilt “beyond all reasonable doubt” for you to be convicted. You have a right to a trial by jury, wherein a jury determines your guilt or innocence. If the jury finds you guilty, you have the right to request that the jury determine your sentence.

You have the right to testify at your own trial but you cannot be forced to testify and your refusal cannot be held against you. You also have the right to subpoena witnesses for your case. Your lawyers can cross-examine state witnesses in the event of a trial. Finally, if you are found guilty, you have the right to appeal your trial.

If you need help with a criminal matter, let the Texas criminal lawyers at Grossman Law Offices help you.  With 20 years experience we can defend you in court for all types of criminal cases.


Related articles:
Probation eligibility
Dallas felony cases

Questions answered in this article:
What are my rights if I'm arrested?
What are my rights in a state court?


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