Columbus, Georgia Criminal Jury Trial

Going to trial can be an unfamiliar and intimidating experience, especially when important decisions relating to your future are at stake. The lawyers at Wadkins & Wallace will prepare you for a criminal jury trial or appearing in court. They will explain what takes place in the courtroom, what will be decided, what you should do and how they propose to move forward.

What are your rights?

When you are charged with a crime, you are entitled to a trial by a jury of your peers according to the Seventh Amendment of the United States Constitution. The state constitution in Georgia also guarantees Georgia citizens the right to a trial.

What is a hearing versus a trial?

A hearing is a legal proceeding in court where a judge hears a case and decides if it is worth pursuing. A trial is a judicial proceeding where the case is presented to a panel of jurors who determine the outcome of the case. In a trial, jurors are selected by both the prosecution and the defense through a voir dire process.

Is a criminal jury trial always required?

No. The lawyers at Wadkins & Wallace will work with you to determine the best option from a plea agreement to a bench trial in front of a judge to a jury trial. There are pros and cons to each option. In a jury trial, your attorney will present the most convincing and compelling case to the jurors to appeal to their emotions. An experienced judge in a bench trial is more likely to make decisions based on reason. While juries are more likely to make decisions based on emotion, that also means they are more unpredictable.

Call our offices today to discuss the details of your case. An experienced attorney can advise you on the best course of action.