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The Path Forward

A Guide to Navigating the Criminal Justice System After a Crime

The Path Forward is series of 14 short videos designed to help members in our community understand what to expect after experiencing a crime — from the moment a 911 call is made through navigating the criminal justice system. This series explains the investigative and legal processes, and highlights your rights and the resources available to you—so you can make informed decisions every step of the way. While developed with the Atlanta community in mind, The Path Forward is a helpful resource for victims, families, and professionals beyond the city.

Step 1

What Happens When You Call 9-1-1?

The operator listens carefully, assesses the situation, and quickly assigns the appropriate emergency response

Step 2

What Happens When Police Arrive on Scene?

The officer’s first priority is safety—ensuring the scene is secure and everyone is protected.

Step 3

What Happens During an Investigation?

Investigators gather evidence, interview witnesses, identify suspects, and may execute search warrants for phones, cameras, homes, or vehicles.

Step 4

What is the Role of the Victim Advocate?

A victim advocate provides support, information, and guidance throughout the criminal justice process.

Step 5

What Does it Mean to Take Out a Warrant?

Taking out a warrant means the investigator presents sworn evidence to a judge to establish probable cause that a crime was committed.

Step 6

How are Charges Filed in a Case?

After an arrest, law enforcement submits the case file to the prosecutor.

Step 7

What is a First Appearance Hearing?

This is the defendant’s first court appearance, typically within 24 to 72 hours of arrest.

Step 8

What is a Preliminary Hearing?

A preliminary hearing determines whether there is enough probable cause for the case to move forward.

Step 9

What is a Grand Jury Hearing?

A grand jury is a confidential proceeding where jurors review evidence presented by the prosecutor to decide whether to issue an indictment or no bill.

Step 10

What is an Arraignment?

An arraignment is where the defendant formally hears the charges and enters a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

Step 11

What is a Pre-Trial Conference?

A pre-trial conference is a status hearing where the judge and attorneys review the case, discuss readiness for trial, and consider plea negotiations or scheduling issues.

Step 12

What are Motion Hearings?

An arraignment is where the defendant formally hears the charges and enters a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

Step 13

What Happens During a Trial?

A trial is the formal court proceeding where evidence is presented to a judge or jury, and the state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Step 14

What is a Sentencing Hearing?

A sentencing hearing occurs after a conviction where the judge considers arguments, reports, and victim impact statements before deciding the defendant’s punishment.

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