Criminal Charges: What are They?
Criminal charges are formal allegations made by government officials such as a public prosecutor or the police that someone has committed a crime. A charging document, which includes one or more criminal charges or counts, may be presented in various formats, including the complaint. The following shows a list of criminal charges under the law in the United States, although, there are several others.
- Aggravated assault
- Arson
- Domestic violence
- Child abuse
- Fraud
- Kidnapping
- Burglary
An Overview of Criminal law
The specific behaviors that constitute criminal conduct vary on the rules of a given country, as do the names of crimes. The federal, state, and municipal governments ban behavior of particular interest to them. Some criminal charges, such as robbery and perjury, have existed for centuries, while others have been introduced later. A recent example is an introduction of cyberbullying as a felony. Once legislators enact legislation, police officers and prosecutors are accountable for its enforcement.
Prosecutors have discretion over what criminal charges to file or pursue. Either an indictment by a grand jury or filing a criminal complaint constitutes the official initiation of a prosecution. If the jury reaches a guilty verdict, judges often adhere to sentencing guidelines that inform them how much weight to give elements such as a defendant’s prior criminal convictions (if any) when crafting an appropriate sentence.
However, the U.S. Constitution guarantees numerous procedural rights, including Miranda warnings, a speedy trial, the right to be free from improper searches, and the opportunity to face accusers if you’re criminally charged. You can contest a conviction by seeking an appeal with a higher court.
You Need a Lawyer If You’re Facing Criminal Charges
If you have been accused of criminal charges or other crimes, you must understand your legal rights. At the Slaughter Law Firm, we provide flexibility, a hands-on approach, and a personal touch when handling legal issues. Our primary practice areas include criminal law, personal injury, and divorce. Contact us for more information on legal matters.
