Sentencing
What happens if I am found or I plead Guilty?
If one pleads guilty or is found guilty after trial, the case is set for sentencing. Often, creative Sentencing options are available for different individuals. In every case, a person is referred to the probation office where a probation officer interviews you and makes a recommendation to the judge as to an appropriate sentence. Since, the probation officer's report largely influences the sentence the Judge imposes, it is helpful to consult your attorney about how to discuss the case with the probation officer.
What Happens AFTER CONVICTION?
In most cases, after either a plea of guilty or a finding of guilt after trial, the following options may be available:
1) Motion for new trial OR Motion to withdraw guilty plea
2) Appeal
3) Modification of sentence
It is possible to come back before the sentencing judge and ask for modifications on some of the terms and conditions of probation.
4) Expungement
In some cases, after a person has successfully completed the term of probation, it may be possible to appear before the court and reverse their criminal conviction. An expungement is to a conviction like an annulment is to a marriage: it means that it never happened. Thus you can honestly represent to (private) entities that you have never been convicted of a crime.
