Once the evidence is gathered and a suspect is in custody, the legal process begins. Trials and the Courts walks readers through every aspect of a criminal legal case, from the arrest and charges filed to arraignment to plea-bargaining or trial to conviction or acquittal, and finally sentencing and the appeal process. This title describes the nature of criminal defense and the role of the prosecutor, explaining the criteria for determining guilt or innocence, and how the jury system functions. The comprehensive book also discusses victim's rights and the rights of the accused and explores the media's role in "show trials."