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Initial Appearance in Municipal Court - This is the first time the defendant goes before a judge. Bond will be set. For cases originating in the city of Cleveland, this takes place in the 3rd floor of the Justice Center. |
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Waive Preliminary Hearing? - Defendants who choose to waive the Preliminary Hearing are bound over to Grand Jury. |
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Preliminary Hearing in Municipal Court - The judge decides if there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. Bond will be continued or set. Failure to appear at the Preliminary Hearing will result in a warrant being issued. |
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Bound Over? - Once a case is bound over, jurisdiction shifts from the municipal court to the Court of Common Pleas which is at the County level. |
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Yes - If the defendant is in jail, bond investigation takes place at this point. |
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Grand Jury - Decides if there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. |
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Indictment Issued - The formal accusation that lists the charges and describes the offense. Copies are available at the County Clerk of Courts Office on the 2nd floor of the Justice Center. |
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Yes - If the defendant is NOT in jail, bond investigation takes place at this point. |
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Arraignment - A plea is taken, an attorney is appointed, and a judge is assigned to the case. Bond will be continued or set. Failure to appear at the arraignment will result in a warrant being issued. |
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Trial - A plea bargain may take place, avoiding a trial. |
