If you have been charged with a capital crime in Florida, a grand jury will determine whether your case should go to trial. According to the Florida Supreme Court, a grand jury is “an investigating, reporting, and accusing agency of the Florida Circuit Court”. In a grand jury trial, citizens will determine whether there is probable cause to believe that someone has committed a capital crime.
During a grand jury hearing, evidence will be presented to determine whether a crime has been committed and whether there is enough evidence against the accused to warrant a formal trial.
If a grand jury determines that there is cause to believe that someone has committed a capital crime, that person will be bound over to a circuit court for trial. Then, in a Florida circuit court, another jury will determine whether that person is actually guilty of the crime they are being charged with. If someone is convicted of a capital crime in Florida, they face the possibility of life in prison, or in the worst case, execution, usually by lethal injection.
If you have been charged with a capital crime in Florida, a Miami criminal defense lawyer can advise you on your rights. If your case is bound over to a formal court of law, your Miami criminal defense lawyer may represent your legal interests during a criminal trial.
Contacting a Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges in South Florida, your legal team is your best defense. Contact the Miami criminal defense lawyer team at Falk & Ross to discuss your case – (877) 663-5110.