The criminal justice process involves a series of steps that are followed when dealing with a criminal case. While the specific details may vary depending on jurisdiction, here is a general overview of the 12 steps involved in the criminal justice process: Investigation: The process begins with an investigation conducted by law enforcement agencies. Evidence is gathered, witnesses are interviewed, and the facts of the case are established. Arrest: If the evidence suggests that a crime has been committed and a specific individual is believed to be responsible, they may be arrested. The person is taken into custody by law enforcement. Booking: After the arrest, the suspect is taken to a police station or jail for processing. This involves recording their personal information, taking fingerprints and photographs, and conducting a background check. Initial Appearance: The suspect is brought before a judge for their initial appearance, usually within 48 hours of the arrest. During this hearing, the charges are formally presented, the defendant is informed of their rights, and bail may be set. Bail: If bail is set, the defendant may have the opportunity to be released from custody by posting bail. This is a financial guarantee to ensure the defendant’s appearance in future court proceedings. Grand Jury or Preliminary Hearing: In some jurisdictions, a grand jury or preliminary hearing is conducted to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. This step is not present in all cases and varies depending on the jurisdiction. Arraignment: The defendant appears in court for the arraignment, where they are formally notified of the charges against them. They enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If the defendant pleads guilty or no contest, the case may proceed to sentencing. If they plead not guilty, the case moves to the next step. Discovery and Pre-trial Motions: The prosecution and defense exchange information and evidence through a process known as discovery. Pre-trial motions may also be filed by the defense, challenging the admissibility of evidence or requesting specific legal rulings.

1. Explain the 12 steps of the criminal justice process. updated 2023
Provide a minimum of three (3) pages but no more than five (5), double spaced,
using 12pt font and one inch margins.
Be sure to cite your work (APA Style) and provide a reference page.
Title and/or Reference Page is not included in the three (3) page minimum. write a
three to five page (3-5) paper to demonstrate your proficiency and understanding.
You will discuss at least one of the course objectives. Course objectives are as
follows:
1. Identify the main components of the criminal justice system and explain their
contributions to the administration of justice.
2. Explain the 12 steps of the criminal justice process.
3. Summarize the history of policing and explain the various law enforcement
procedures.
4. Describe the nature of due process and the specific constitutional
amendments that guarantee these rights
. 5. Examine the makeup of the American court system.
6. Evaluate modern correctional practices and the philosophies guiding both
institutional and community corrections.
7. Discuss contemporary criminal justice issues.

2. The criminal justice
process involves a series of steps that are followed when dealing with a criminal
case. While the specific details may vary depending on jurisdiction, here is a
general overview of the 12 steps involved in the criminal justice process:
1. Investigation: The process begins with an investigation conducted by law
enforcement agencies. Evidence is gathered, witnesses are interviewed, and
the facts of the case are established.
2. Arrest: If the evidence suggests that a crime has been committed and a
specific individual is believed to be responsible, they may be arrested. The
person is taken into custody by law enforcement.
3. Booking: After the arrest, the suspect is taken to a police station or jail for
processing. This involves recording their personal information, taking
fingerprints and photographs, and conducting a background check.
4. Initial Appearance: The suspect is brought before a judge for their initial
appearance, usually within 48 hours of the arrest. During this hearing, the
charges are formally presented, the defendant is informed of their rights, and
bail may be set.

3. 5. Bail: If bail is set, the defendant may have the opportunity to be released
from custody by posting bail. This is a financial guarantee to ensure the
defendant’s appearance in future court proceedings.
6. Grand Jury or Preliminary Hearing: In some jurisdictions, a grand jury or
preliminary hearing is conducted to determine if there is enough evidence to
proceed to trial. This step is not present in all cases and varies depending on
the jurisdiction.
7. Arraignment: The defendant appears in court for the arraignment, where
they are formally notified of the charges against them. They enter a plea of
guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If the defendant pleads guilty or no contest,
the case may proceed to sentencing. If they plead not guilty, the case moves
to the next step.
8. Discovery and Pre-trial Motions: The prosecution and defense exchange
information and evidence through a process known as discovery. Pre-trial
motions may also be filed by the defense, challenging the admissibility of
evidence or requesting specific legal rulings.
9. Plea Bargaining: Before trial, the prosecution and defense may engage in
plea bargaining negotiations. This involves discussions about a potential
plea agreement, where the defendant may agree to plead guilty to a lesser
charge or receive a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding trial.

4. 10.Trial: If a plea agreement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial. The
prosecution presents its evidence and witnesses, and the defense has the
opportunity to present its own evidence and cross-examine witnesses. A jury
or judge then determines the guilt or innocence of the defendant.
11.Sentencing: If the defendant is found guilty, a sentencing hearing is held.
During this phase, the judge considers various factors, such as the nature of
the crime and the defendant’s criminal history, to determine an appropriate
sentence.
12.Appeals: After the sentencing, the defendant may have the right to appeal
the verdict or the sentence. Appeals are based on legal errors made during
the trial or sentencing phase and are typically reviewed by a higher court.
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