Criminal Justice
Resources &
General Terminology
Criminal Justice has to do with the structure of laws and rules for which counties and agencies hold people accountable.
RESOURCES
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Need help locating a loved one or any rules for state treatment centers or prisons? This website will help navigate the basics.
National Institute for Justice
Trying to learn more about Criminal justice? This website helps to expand knowledge in national contemporary issues.
Dallas County Court
Many courts have free access to court records. This way attorneys and others can easily access the status of cases. If you're not looking for Dallas, try going to google and typing in your county, with court case portal or “on base.” This will usually help navigate your search engine results quickly.
Timeline
of
arrest
and
court process
Arrest through release
This is a basic timeline through the criminal justice process. Keeping in mind that the process is long and often changing, they’re many consistent parts to the timeline.
It’s worth noting that while it can feel life changed in a moment, it generally takes years for disposition and completion of all court obligations.
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Includes the moment of arrest or charges filed. Some charges require long periods of investigation for filing and are different than the day of arrest. Once an arrest occurs, the invidivual is taken “into custody” and will remain until a bail is submitted or offense time is served.
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Involves all the time between arrest and the disposition while appearing for court. This stage will include an attorney, court hearings, and bond requirements. Often unknown and expensive, this part of waiting can be very stressful. Cases are routinely “passed” many months and disposition can take place months to years after arrest.
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This phase is very important as it includes the judicial instructions and decision from the court regarding the offense committed. The sentenced individual will receive court obligations to fulfill. This can include incarceration, treatment options, community service, mandatory classes, and monitoring devices.
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A common court decision is community supervision or probation. Many states rely on this heavily as it assists prison capacity and offers the offender another chance in the community—to work, pay debts, and take classes. It also keeps taxes lower for the state. The cost to incarcerate is $65 a day versus probation at $5.50 per day.
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This includes the offender completing all judicial requirements to the courts satisfaction and being released from state and county monitoring.
The criminal justice system isn’t the most transparent process. By nature, there are confidentiality hurdles and common barriers that make it difficult for families to support their loved one.
Having information and knowledge ahead of time is essential to reduce stress and bring understanding to circumstances. Head over to our contact page and reach out so we can help you!
Rehabilitation
Referring to restoration of an offender, assisted by education, behavioral classes and/or treatment (drug and alcohol) services. The focus is on identifying behaviors and encouraging changes through best practices rather than strictly punitive efforts within the justice system.
Reintegration
The process and impact on the offender and family when returning home from incarceration or treatment. Reintegration emphasizes the assistance and support needed through community involvement and resources.