Pleading “not guilty” means that you do not want to give up your constitutional rights at this time, and your case will be scheduled for another Court hearing at a later date. You will then have time to explore your options, and work with counsel in reviewing evidence, preparing your defense, and/or in negotiating a plea agreement with the prosecution.

When you plead “not guilty” your case will be scheduled for another Court hearing at a later date. You will then have time to explore your options, and work with counsel in reviewing evidence, preparing your defense, and/or in negotiating a plea agreement with the prosecution.

If your case is in the District Court, you will only be eligible for a trial before a Judge, there are no juries in District Court.

If your case is in the Circuit Court, you will be eligible for either a jury trial, or a bench trial before the Circuit Court Judge assigned to your case.

The choice regarding whether to proceed with a jury, or simply with the Judge, is a decision that is ripe with considerations, which vary case by case, and is something that should be decided with the assistance of counsel.

Posted in: Criminal Law