Dealing with criminal charges and the possibility of a trial can be extremely daunting. Many defendants find themselves asking, “What are the odds of winning a criminal trial?” Ewing Law Group, PC, offers custom and affordable criminal defense services throughout Sacramento and the neighboring counties of Placer, El Dorado, Yolo, Yuba, and Sutter.
Although only 2-3% of criminal cases in California proceed to trial, the majority of those that do result in convictions. Having a solid pre-trial strategy is essential to improving your case's chances of success. Getting in touch with a knowledgeable Sacramento criminal defense attorney is the first step in any strategy.
Important Factors That Affect Trial Results
Several key factors can influence the outcome of a criminal trial, such as:
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- Type of criminal charge. The type of charge you’re facing can present different difficulties in your case. For example, a drug possession charge could mean your attorney could challenge evidence if police didn't follow proper search procedures. On the other hand, major felonies like robbery that involve tangible evidence or eyewitnesses might be more difficult to defend at trial.
- Prosecutorial discretion. Prosecutors frequently offer diversion programs or plea deals in counties like Yolo, particularly for non-violent offenses. Your chances of being tried may be affected by these regional patterns.
- Strength of the evidence and legal strategies. The outcome of a trial depends heavily on the evidence. The prosecution has to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. To help build a strong defense, Ewing Law Group, PC, looks for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to increase your chances of a dismissal.
Trial by Jury vs. Bench Trial
A bench trial (where your verdict is decided by a judge and not by a jury) and a jury trial are available options. Bench trial outcomes can lean towards legal arguments, whereas jury trial outcomes can depend on how compelling each side’s story is.
Case results can also be impacted by understanding how local courts function. Ewing Law Group, PC, has extensive experience in the greater Sacramento area, including Placer, El Dorado, Yolo, Yuba, and Sutter counties. This experience includes understanding how individual judges manage trials and how local prosecutors handle negotiations.
When Do Criminal Cases Go to Trial?
Even though the majority of cases are settled out of court, some go to trial for various reasons. This includes when the defendant refuses all plea deals, the evidence presented by the prosecution is circumstantial or weak, a plea deal does not significantly reduce penalties, or there are constitutional issues such as illegal searches or coerced confessions.
California follows a general timeline for criminal trials:
- Arrest and arraignment (within 48 hours of arrest)
- Pretrial hearings, which include plea negotiations, motion filings, and the exchange of evidence
- Jury selection (1-3 days, depending on the case)
- Trial proceedings (statements, evidence, witness testimony)
- Verdict and sentencing (sentence typically takes place 30 to 60 days following a guilty verdict)
Working with a knowledgeable Sacramento criminal defense firm like Ewing Law Group, PC, can help you stay ahead at every stage of the trial timeline. Delays often occur when evidence isn’t requested promptly, motions are filed late, or legal strategy lacks coordination.
These setbacks are reduced by Ewing Law Group’s commitment to treating every case with the care it deserves. To help our clients strengthen their defense and increase the possibility of a successful outcome, we approach every part of the criminal trial process with precision and attention to detail.
Alternatives to Criminal Trial
Avoiding a trial often results in a better outcome. We help our clients explore all options:
- Plea deals (agreements reached through negotiation to lower fines or charges)
- Diversion programs are available for eligible non-violent or first-time offenders
- Deferred entry of judgment allows a case to be dismissed after completing a program
- Restitution agreements involve giving victims money to lessen legal repercussions
These options may result in reduced fines, quicker resolutions, and preserved documentation.
FAQs
Q: What Percent of Criminal Cases Get Dismissed?
A: In 2022, around 8.2% of criminal cases were dismissed before going to trial, according to the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. These dismissals frequently happen as a result of insufficient evidence, errors made by law enforcement during the investigation, or successful defense motions, like those contesting illegal searches or constitutional rights violations.
Q: What Are the Odds of Going to Trial?
A: Going to trial is rare for most defendants in California, as the majority of criminal cases are resolved through other means, like plea deals or other resolutions. Depending on the circumstances of each client and the quality of the evidence at hand, Ewing Law Group, PC, determines whether a trial is required.
Q: What Percentage of Criminal Cases Plead Out?
A: Plea agreements are used to settle about 98% of federal criminal cases. These frequently involve a guilty plea in return for fewer charges. Plea bargaining spares the defendant and the court from the uncertainty of a trial. Every plea deal is carefully evaluated by Ewing Law Group, PC, to see if it is in the interests of the client.
Q: How Often Do Defendants Win?
A: In 2022, only about 0.4% of federal criminal cases went to trial and were found not guilty. Focusing on avoiding trial whenever possible is key to securing an optimal outcome. Ewing Law Group, PC, works to strengthen your case by challenging questionable evidence, developing tailored defense strategies, and ensuring that all your rights are protected throughout the process.
Consult With a Criminal Defense Attorney in Sacramento
Criminal charges carry significant consequences that can have a lasting impact on your life. The stakes are high, and a positive result depends on having a well-thought-out defense plan. You need to have knowledge of the law as well as the local legal system. Ewing Law Group, PC, focuses on individualized care and a quick turnaround to make sure your rights are protected, and you can move on from your charges as soon as possible.
If you or someone you care about is facing criminal prosecution, don’t wait to find a lawyer. Contact Ewing Law Group, PC to discuss the particulars of your case and begin creating a solid defense strategy.
