Murder trials are serious, and the amount of time they take can reflect the serious nature of the offense and the potential penalties involved. To get a better idea about how long a murder trial may take, it’s essential to understand the steps leading up to the trial and the factors that affect how long the case may take. Reach out to our murder attorney in Indianapolis to learn more about the timeline of your murder trial.

How Long Do Murder Trials Typically Last?

Steps to Get to a Murder Trial

Before a murder trial occurs, several steps take place, including:

Investigation: The criminal case officially begins once a crime is reported. Law enforcement investigates to determine who committed the crime. Police prepare an arrest report or case report that details their investigation, which is then submitted to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecuting attorney is responsible for reviewing the case and determining whether to file criminal charges.
Criminal charges filed: If the prosecutor determines there is sufficient evidence to file criminal charges, their office prepares a probable cause affidavit to charge the individual. The judge determines whether there is indeed probable cause. If there is, an arrest warrant will be issued, and police will arrest the suspect.
Arraignment: The accused individual appears for an arraignment where the judge enters a plea of not guilty and informs the defendant of their legal rights, including the right to an attorney.
Appearance: The appearance is the first time the defendant appears with their attorney. The judge sets various dates for the case.
Plea agreement: The defense attorney and prosecutor may engage in negotiations to reduce the charges to a lesser offense or recommend a more lenient sentence.
Trial: If the parties don’t agree to a plea agreement, the case proceeds to trial. A jury is selected. The prosecution presents its case, presenting evidence and witnesses to support the prosecution’s allegations. Then, the defense has the opportunity to present its case. After the trial, the jury deliberates and renders a verdict.

Murder cases are highly complex, so it’s vital that you have an experienced attorney who can capably represent you through all phases of your case.

Factors That Can Affect How Long a Murder Trial Takes

Various factors can affect how long a murder trial takes, including:

Whether the Case Is Resolved Through a Plea Bargain or Goes to Trial

If you agree to a plea bargain, there will be no trial. The case will be resolved more quickly, and you will attend a plea bargain hearing instead of going to trial.

The Complexity of the Case

The more complex the case is, the longer it will take. The prosecution may need to present additional evidence and expert witnesses to help explain it.

The Number of Witnesses

The more witnesses, the longer the case will take. Each attorney has an opportunity to present witnesses and examine them. Then, the other side cross-examines them.

The Number of Defendants

If multiple defendants are charged with the same crime, the case will likely take longer. The prosecution must prove each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Contact the Board-Certified Attorneys at the Criminal Defense Team If You’re Charged with Murder

Your life is at stake when you’re charged with murder. The board-certified criminal trial specialists at The Criminal Defense Team of Baldwin Perry & Wiley, PC, possess the in-depth knowledge and skills necessary to present a strong defense. Contact us today at (317) 687-8326 to schedule a confidential consultation.