Most criminal cases in Chandler resolve through plea agreements. However, some cases proceed to trial when negotiations fail, the evidence is weak, or the accused chooses to fight the charges. When that happens, the stakes increase significantly.
If you are facing serious misdemeanor or felony charges, understanding what happens when a case goes to trial can help you prepare. At Guardian Law, we represent individuals throughout Chandler and Maricopa County who face high-stakes criminal allegations, including violent crimes, drug offenses, weapons charges, robbery, and white collar crime defense matters. Below, we explain when cases go to trial, how the process works, and what you can expect.
Why Do Some Criminal Cases Go to Trial?
Although plea agreements resolve many cases, several factors may lead to trial.
First, the prosecution may offer an unreasonable plea agreement. If the offer exposes you to harsh penalties despite weaknesses in the evidence, going to trial may make strategic sense.
Second, the evidence may be weak or unreliable. For example:
- Witnesses may provide conflicting statements
- Law enforcement may have conducted an unlawful search
- Forensic evidence may lack reliability
- Surveillance footage may not clearly identify the accused
Third, you may maintain your innocence and choose to exercise your constitutional right to trial.
Ultimately, the decision to proceed to trial requires careful analysis of risks and potential rewards. An experienced criminal defense attorney in Arizona will evaluate the evidence, sentencing exposure, and negotiation posture before recommending a course of action.
Your Right to a Trial
Both the United States Constitution and the Arizona Constitution guarantee your right to a trial. In most cases, you may choose between:
- A jury trial, where jurors decide guilt or innocence
- A bench trial, where a judge decides the case
In felony cases, defendants typically choose a jury trial. In misdemeanor cases, either option may be available depending on the charge.
At trial, the burden rests entirely on the prosecution. The state must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Trial Process in Chandler Criminal Court
When a case proceeds to trial in Chandler, it follows a structured process.
1. Jury Selection (Voir Dire)
If the case involves a jury, the court begins with jury selection. During this process:
- The judge and attorneys question potential jurors
- Attorneys identify bias or conflicts
- Each side may strike certain jurors
Jury selection plays a critical role because jurors ultimately determine the verdict.
2. Opening Statements
After the jury is selected, both sides present opening statements. The prosecutor outlines the state’s theory of the case. Then, the defense presents its perspective and frames the issues.
Although opening statements are not evidence, they shape how jurors view the case.
3. The Prosecution’s Case
Next, the prosecution presents evidence. This may include:
- Testimony from police officers
- Alleged victim testimony
- Expert witnesses
- Forensic evidence
- Surveillance footage
- Physical evidence
The defense has the opportunity to cross-examine every witness. Effective cross-examination can expose inconsistencies, bias, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
4. Motion for Judgment of Acquittal
After the prosecution rests, the defense may ask the judge to dismiss the case if the state failed to present sufficient evidence. Although judges rarely grant these motions, they remain an important safeguard.
5. The Defense Case
The defense may then present its own evidence. However, the defense does not have to prove innocence. Because the burden remains on the state, the defense may choose not to present evidence if the prosecution’s case is weak.
If the defense does present evidence, it may include:
- Defense witnesses
- Expert testimony
- Character evidence
- The defendant’s testimony (if strategically appropriate)
Importantly, you have the right not to testify, and the jury cannot hold that decision against you.
6. Closing Arguments
After both sides rest, attorneys present closing arguments. The prosecutor argues why the evidence proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense highlights weaknesses, inconsistencies, and reasonable doubt.
7. Jury Deliberation and Verdict
Finally, the jury deliberates privately. In criminal cases, the verdict must be unanimous.
Possible outcomes include:
- Not guilty
- Guilty
- Guilty on some counts and not guilty on others
- Hung jury (no unanimous decision)
If the jury cannot reach a unanimous verdict, the judge may declare a mistrial.
What Happens If You Are Acquitted?
If the jury returns a not guilty verdict, the case ends. The court cannot retry you on the same charges because constitutional protections against double jeopardy apply.
An acquittal means no criminal conviction for the charged offense.
What Happens If You Are Convicted?
If the jury finds you guilty, the case moves to sentencing. In felony cases, sentencing typically occurs several weeks later. The judge considers:
- The felony classification
- Dangerous offense designations
- Prior convictions
- Aggravating and mitigating factors
Sentencing can involve probation, jail, or prison depending on the offense and criminal history.
The Importance of Trial Preparation
Strong trial outcomes rarely happen by accident. Effective trial advocacy requires:
- Detailed evidence review
- Pretrial motion practice
- Strategic witness preparation
- Careful jury selection
- Aggressive cross-examination
At Guardian Law, we prepare every serious criminal case as though it may go to trial. This approach strengthens both negotiation leverage and courtroom performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a criminal trial last in Chandler?
Misdemeanor trials may last one or two days. Felony trials can last several days or even weeks, depending on complexity.
Do most criminal cases go to trial?
No. Most cases resolve through plea agreements. However, trial remains an important option when negotiations fail.
Is trial risky?
Yes. Trials involve uncertainty because jurors decide the outcome. However, when the evidence is weak or the plea offer is unreasonable, trial may provide the best opportunity for acquittal.
Should I hire a criminal defense attorney with trial experience?
Absolutely. Trial experience matters significantly in serious criminal cases.
Strategic Criminal Defense in Chandler
When criminal cases go to trial in Chandler, the prosecution must meet the highest legal burden: proof beyond a reasonable doubt. While trial carries risk, it also offers the opportunity to challenge weak evidence and fight for acquittal.
At Guardian Law, we defend clients facing serious charges throughout Chandler and Maricopa County. We handle violent crimes, drug offenses, weapons charges, robbery allegations, and white collar crime defense matters with aggressive preparation and strategic advocacy.
Call Guardian Law today at (602) 888-8020 for a confidential consultation.