This is a summary of the criminal justice system in Prince William County, Virginia, as of January 2022, when I last checked. Remember that legal systems might change, therefore it's best to check current legal papers or legal practitioners for the most up-to-date information from  criminal defense attorney prince william county.

Law enforcement officers:

As for the Prince William County Police Force:

In charge of maintaining safety for everyone in the law enforcement department.

Investigate and prosecute criminal activity.

General District Court:

Handles misdemeanor criminal cases as well as preliminary hearings for felony accusations.

In charge of traffic violations.

Handles civil claims with monetary disputes up to Amount.

The Circuit Court of Appeals hears felony criminal cases.

Hears General District Court petitions.

Deals with high-stakes civil litigation.

Prosecution:

Commonwealth's Attorney: A person who represents the state in criminal trials.

Consider prosecuting someone based on the evidence acquired by law enforcement.

Legal Process:

Arrest: law enforcement examines & arrests individuals because of proof of illegal activity.

The charges and the accused's legal rights are explained to them at the arraignment.

Charges like culpable, innocent, & no contest are entered.

Pretrial proceedings include the gathering of evidence and the presentation of legal arguments.

Misdemeanor and preliminary hearings take place in the General District Court, while offenses take place in the Circuit Court.

The prosecution and defense each present their respective cases.

A judge or jury decides whether someone is guilty or innocent.

Sentencing:

Please keep in mind that this is just a general overview and that unique circumstances may have extra-legal implications. Because legal procedures and resources may have changed, interacting with legal practitioners or receiving access to  prince william county criminal defense attorney. is crucial.