Civil Case Procedure Steps in a Civil Lawsuit Plaintiff files a complaint (in order to recover damages or receive $$ compensation) Case is heard by a judge or jury. - Then a verdict is given If the defendant or plaintiff loses… They may appeal to the Next higher level court Possible plea Bargain here

Criminal Procedures in a Felony Case ARREST Suspect given the Miranda warning and charge (book) the suspect with a crime (arrests only occur with probable cause) Preliminary Hearing Arraignment Suspect appears before a Judge and is informed of his/ her charge(s) (Writ of Habeas Corpus). Bail is set.

Indictment Suspect brought before a grand jury to see if there is enough evidence for a trial. If there is enough, the suspect is indicted or formally charged Trial Prosecution and Defense present their case to a jury or judge who reaches a verdict.

Trial Prosecution and Defense present their case to a jury or judge who reaches a verdict. Acquittal Defendant found not guilty and goes free! Sentencing Defendant found Guilty. -Judge or jury sentences (issues punishment) the defendant  **Remember, cases can always be appealed to higher courts by the defendant if they feel a mistake was made in their case and lead to a guilty verdict.