What is a preliminary hearing?

A preliminary hearing is where the State must prove to a neutral magistrate that there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed, and that there is probable cause to believe that the accused committed the offense. This burden of proof must be met for the case to continue into District Court. The burden of proof, probable cause, is lower than required at a trial. At trial, the State has the burden of proving every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

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1. How do I find out if I have been appointed a Public Defender?
2. How can I get the service of a Public Defender?
3. I have been told I have a Conflict Attorney, what does that mean?
4. How can I contact my conflict attorney?
5. If I am arrested for drug possession, is there a way to have my criminal case dismissed?
6. What can I expect if I am arrested?
7. What is probation and what happens if I violate it?
8. What is bail?
9. If I am arrested, should I talk to the police?
10. If the police don't read me my rights, can I get my case dismissed?
11. What is an Arraignment?
12. What is a preliminary hearing?
13. What if I fail to appear at my hearing?
14. What do I do if I know I have a warrant?
15. What do I do if I am picked up on a warrant?
16. Can the Public Defender's Office represent me on my traffic ticket?
17. How do I get my case investigated?
18. How do I find someone who is in the Humboldt County Jail?
19. How can I visit someone who is in the Humboldt County Detention Center?
20. How do I visit a state prison?
21. Are Public Defenders attorneys?
22. What is the difference between a Public Defender and a District Attorney?
23. Can I file my own motions in court?
24. If I am a victim of a crime, can the Public Defender's Office represent me?
25. Do Public Defenders have the same obligations as private attorneys?
26. What happens if I am charged with a juvenile offense?
27. What should I do if I am in a abusive situation?
28. What should I do if my family breaks up?
29. If juvenile charges are filed against you, you have the right to a lawyer
30. How does a juvenile case start?
31. What happens if I am arrested (juvenile)?
32. What is a detention hearing (Juvenile)?
33. What should I wear to my hearing?
34. What is a plea hearing (Juvenile)?
35. What is a dispositional hearing (Juvenile)?
36. What is emancipation?