Misdemeanor Cases

General Anatomy of a Misdemeanor Case in District Court

Police investigation by relevant law enforcement agency
Report filed with County Attorney's Office
Review for sufficiency of evidence and charging decision
Misdemeanor charge is filed in District Court
Defendant is served with complaint by way of arrest warrant or summons
First Appearance
- Reading of charge and range of possible penalties
- Legal representation
- Next appearance date
- Bond
Arraignment
- Guilty - Move to sentencing
- Not Guilty - Set for trial
- No Contest - Move to sentencing
Trial
- To a judge
- To a jury of six
- State bears burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt
- Defendant may remain silent or present evidence
- Verdict
  - Guilty
  - Not Guilty
Sentencing