An arrest in Nashville does not end when the handcuffs come off. After you’re taken into custody, there are a few steps that can happen before your criminal case ever reaches a courtroom.
So, what happens after you are arrested in Nashville? You may be booked into the Davidson County jail, have your bond set, appear before a judicial commissioner, and eventually receive a court date.
When you know what happens next, that can help you understand where your case stands and what you need to do.
Are You Booked Into Jail?
After an arrest in Nashville or elsewhere in Davidson County, you will be taken into custody and processed through the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office.
The booking process involves collecting information about you and your arrest, such as fingerprints, photographs, and other identifying information.
You may also undergo a medical screening and pretrial assessment. Davidson County Pretrial Services evaluates eligible individuals for possible release while their cases are pending.
Booking times can vary. You may wait several hours for the next stage of the process, especially if the jail is busy.
Your Bond Will Be Addressed
In Davidson County, a judicial commissioner can handle an initial appearance and set bond when appropriate. The commissioner may set a financial bond or impose conditions of release.
Not everyone has to remain in jail until their criminal case is finished. The Pretrial Services program evaluates eligible defendants for release while their cases move forward.
Getting Released Doesn’t Mean the Case Is Over
Being released from jail can feel like the end of the immediate crisis. However, this isn’t the end of the criminal case. You may have conditions you must follow while your case is pending. Plus, you will have a court date you are required to attend.
Take that date seriously. Missing a court appearance could result in a warrant being issued. Along with that, keep your paperwork somewhere you won’t lose it, make sure you understand your release conditions, and notify your criminal defense attorney if your contact information changes.
Your First Court Appearance May Be in General Sessions Court
Many criminal cases in Davidson County begin in General Sessions Court. These judges handle misdemeanor cases and conduct preliminary hearings in felony cases.
What happens next depends on the charge. A misdemeanor case may be resolved in General Sessions Court. But a felony case can take a different path. If the case proceeds beyond General Sessions, it may eventually move to Criminal Court.
What Is a Preliminary Hearing?
If you’re facing a felony charge, you may have a preliminary hearing. This gives the court an opportunity to see whether there is probable cause to continue the case. The prosecution presents evidence, and the defense has an opportunity to challenge the state’s case.
If the case moves forward, it can proceed to the Grand Jury process and potentially Criminal Court.
What Happens in Criminal Court?
Felony cases that move into Criminal Court can involve an arraignment. This is where the defendant appears before the court and the charges are formally addressed.
The defendant will also need an attorney. If someone cannot afford representation and meets the eligibility requirements, the court may appoint counsel. From this point, the case may involve additional hearings, motions, negotiations, or other proceedings.
Keep in mind that not every criminal case ends with a trial. Depending on the situation, a case may be dismissed, resolved through an agreement, or handled through an available diversion program.
When Should You Talk to a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
In these cases, as early as possible. You do not have to wait until your first court date to speak with a lawyer. With help from a Nashville criminal defense lawyer, they can review the charges and help you understand what is happening with your case.
With early legal advice, you can also avoid mistakes that could make the situation more difficult.
The Arrest Is Only the Beginning of the Process
An arrest can feel like everything is happening at once, but the criminal justice process doesn’t end at booking.
So, what happens after an arrest in Nashville?
The path will depend on your charge and situation. If you’ve been arrested in Nashville or Davidson County, Erik Herbert Law can explain where your case currently stands and what comes next. Reach out today for a consultation.
