You have just completed the Arraignment in your case. At the Arraignment, the judge told you the charges you are facing, set a bond, and you were referred to the Office of Assigned Counsel for an appointed lawyer. Also, you entered a plea of not guilty (or the judge entered a not guilty plea on your behalf). The purpose of this website page is to answer some of the questions you probably have about your situation.
Status Conference:
Is the next court hearing after the PE. You and your lawyer will continue to discuss your case, and review the evidence, to decide your next step. You will go to court to tell the judge whether you want to go to trial or try to resolve your case with a plea offer. Your lawyer will tell the judge if there are any motions that need to be filed and if there are any discovery issues in your case.
Jury Trial: Is the proceeding where 12 members of the community decide whether you are not guilty or guilty based on the evidence and witnesses that testify at court.
WHO SHOULD I TALK TO ABOUT MY CASE?
You should talk about your case ONLY with your lawyer. If you are in jail, do not talk about your case over the telephone because the calls are recorded. Anything you say over the phone or video monitors can be given to the prosecutor and used against you. Do not write letters about the facts of your case because your mail will be opened and photocopied. Do not talk to other inmates about your case because they may become a witness against you by telling other people, including the police and prosecutor, what you said.
Do not talk to the police about your case or other investigations. You have a right to remain silent. Furthermore, you now have a lawyer. Tell the police to talk to your lawyer!
If you are not in jail, do not send e-mails, letters, or texts about your case because they can be used against you. Do not post anything about your case on social media, including Facebook. Anything you say or write can be used against you.