When you are charged with a crime, you have the option to plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, you admit to the charges against you and accept the consequences. If you plead not guilty, you contest the charges and a trial will be held to determine your guilt or innocence. However, if you plead not guilty but are ultimately found guilty, there are certain things that will happen.
If you plead not guilty but are found guilty at trial, you will be convicted of the crime. This means that you will have a criminal record and will be subject to any penalties or sentences that the court imposes. The penalties can range from fines to probation to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime.
After you are convicted, the judge will determine your sentence. The sentence can vary depending on the circumstances of the crime and your criminal history. For example, if you are a first-time offender, you may receive a lighter sentence than someone who has a prior criminal record. The judge may also take into account other factors, such as whether you showed remorse or cooperated with law enforcement.
If you are convicted after a trial, you have the right to appeal the decision. An appeal is an opportunity to challenge the verdict and ask a higher court to review the decision. You may be able to appeal on the grounds that the verdict was not supported by the evidence, that the judge made an error in the trial, or that your rights were violated in some way. However, appeals are complex and time-consuming, and the outcome is not guaranteed.
It is rare for a defendant to be able to change their plea after a verdict has been reached. However, there may be some circumstances under which this can happen. You should consult with your attorney if you are considering changing your plea.
No, you cannot be retried for the same crime if you are found not guilty. The principle of double jeopardy prevents the government from trying you twice for the same offense.
If you do not show up for your trial, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest. You may also be charged with contempt of court.
It is highly recommended that you have an attorney for your trial. A criminal defense attorney can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the legal process.
