Criminal cases are among the most serious types of cases handled by the judicial system, due to their direct impact on community safety and security. These cases encompass all major crimes that are punishable by law with severe penalties, such as long-term imprisonment, hard labor, or even the death penalty in some legal systems. They include crimes such as murder, grand theft, rape, drug offenses, forgery, and bribery.
First: What is meant by a felony?
A felony is a crime punishable by law with a severe penalty, classified as more serious than a misdemeanor or violation. It is investigated by the public prosecution and presented to the criminal court, which is specialized in dealing with this type of serious crime.
Second: Stages of the criminal case
The criminal case goes through several essential stages, which are:
1. Evidence collection stage: Conducted by security agencies immediately after the crime occurs, aimed at documenting evidence and apprehending suspects.
2. Investigation stage: Managed by the public prosecution, where defendants and witnesses are interrogated and evidence is analyzed.
3. Trial stage: Begins after the defendant is referred to the court, where parties are heard, defenses are presented, and a ruling is made in the case.
4. Appeal stage: If an unsatisfactory verdict is issued, the convicted person or the prosecution has the right to appeal to a higher court.
Third: Rights of the accused in criminal cases
Despite the seriousness of the crime, the accused in law is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a final judgment. Therefore, they have a set of rights, the most important of which are:
The right to appoint a lawyer or have a lawyer provided if they are unable to do so.
The right to remain silent and not self-incriminate.
The right to a public and fair trial.
The right to appeal the ruling.
Fourth: The Role of the Lawyer in Criminal Cases
The lawyer in criminal cases does not limit their role to defense, but includes:
Presence during investigations.
Ensuring that the rights of the accused are not violated.
Reviewing the case file and analyzing evidence.
Presenting legal defenses that may dismiss the charge or reduce the penalty.
Representing the accused in court and following up on the stages of appeal and execution.
The presence of an experienced lawyer can be the difference between acquittal and conviction, or between imprisonment and a reduced sentence.
Fifth: Can Criminal Cases Be Settled Outside of Court?
In some simple cases or those related to private rights (such as assault or threats), a settlement can be reached between the victim and the perpetrator, which may result in a reduction of the penalty or dismissal of the case, especially if the accused admits to the crime and requests forgiveness. However, in serious crimes such as murder or drug trafficking, the state retains the public right, and the case cannot be dismissed except by a judgment.
Sixth: Challenges of Criminal Cases
Criminal cases require high legal skills due to:
The difficulty and complexity of procedures.
The precision of investigations and technical analyses.
The importance of every word in the police report or investigation.
The significant impact of the judgment on the future and reputation of the accused.
Therefore, choosing a specialized and experienced lawyer in criminal cases is a matter that cannot be overlooked.
Summary
Criminal cases represent the intersection between protecting society and ensuring the constitutional rights of the individual. They are not only about punishing the offender but also about achieving justice and preventing injustice. With a competent lawyer, the accused can obtain a fair and transparent defense, helping the court reach the truth.