Understanding the difference between being charged and being convicted is vital for anyone involved in the criminal justice system. Long Island criminal defense lawyer Jason Bassett (https://jbassettlaw.com/charged-vs-convicted/), of the Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C., has outlined this critical distinction to help the public better understand their legal standing and options when facing criminal allegations.
Being charged with a crime does not mean a person is guilty. As Jason Bassett, a seasoned Long Island criminal defense lawyer, explains, being charged simply means a formal accusation has been made, initiating legal proceedings. In contrast, being convicted means a court has found the individual guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, resulting in penalties such as fines, probation, or incarceration.
As a Long Island criminal defense lawyer, Jason Bassett emphasizes the significance of this difference. “Being charged signifies the initiation of legal proceedings based on allegations of criminal behavior, while being convicted indicates that the legal process has concluded with a determination of guilt,” he states in the article. This difference can greatly impact future employment, housing opportunities, and civil rights.
In the criminal justice system, a charge is only the beginning. It represents law enforcement’s or a prosecutor’s belief that there is enough probable cause to initiate a case. The charged individual is considered a defendant, but not a criminal. The burden of proof remains with the prosecution, and the accused retains all constitutional protections. Jason Bassett, a Long Island criminal defense lawyer with a former prosecutorial background, points out that during this stage, defendants must safeguard their rights. They are not required to answer police questions beyond basic identification and should always request legal representation before engaging in any discussions with law enforcement.
Conviction, on the other hand, is the result of a court or jury finding the defendant guilty after reviewing evidence presented in the trial or accepting a guilty plea. Once convicted, the defendant may face sentencing, and the outcome becomes part of a permanent criminal record. According to Jason Bassett, this criminal record can affect a person’s ability to find work, secure housing, and maintain certain civil liberties. Even a conviction obtained through a plea deal, rather than a full trial, carries long-term consequences.
The article also addresses the phrase “guilty as charged,” which is often misunderstood. It means the individual has either been found guilty in court or has voluntarily admitted guilt. Jason Bassett stresses that before entering any plea, it is crucial to consult with a criminal defense lawyer to understand the implications fully.
Jason Bassett outlines what individuals should do if charged with a crime on Long Island. Silence is essential until legal counsel is present. Compliance with arrest procedures without resistance is also important. Those charged may either receive a Desk Appearance Ticket for minor offenses or be held for arraignment within 24 hours for more serious crimes. During arraignment, formal charges are presented, and a plea is entered. Bail is also determined at this stage. Jason Bassett urges individuals not to consent to searches without a warrant and to avoid discussing the case with anyone except legal counsel.
Throughout the process, charges can be changed, sometimes upgraded if new evidence emerges. This reinforces the need for ongoing legal support. The article highlights the difference between preliminary hearings and grand jury proceedings in New York. Both are used to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial, though they follow different procedures.
Jason Bassett explains how building a defense strategy is key after being charged. Collecting evidence, securing witness statements, and evaluating legal defenses like mistaken identity or unlawful searches all play a part. He also discusses plea bargains, which can reduce sentencing but still result in a conviction on record.
The impact of a conviction can be long-lasting. In New York, even though expungement is not allowed, some records may be sealed under specific conditions. Still, a conviction can show up in background checks and affect access to jobs, housing, and professional licenses.
Understanding the roles of judges and juries is also important. In New York, judges manage trial procedures while juries decide guilt or innocence based on evidence. Outcomes range from acquittals to convictions, each carrying different consequences. Jason Bassett underscores that criminal convictions create permanent records that can shape a person’s life for years to come.
The Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C., located on Long Island, provides guidance during every step of the criminal process. Jason Bassett’s knowledge as both a defense attorney and former prosecutor allows him to navigate both sides of the courtroom and offer detailed insight into how criminal charges can unfold.
Anyone charged with a crime on Long Island is advised to consult with Jason Bassett. Understanding the law is essential to preserving legal rights and minimizing long-term harm. Whether facing a preliminary hearing or deciding on a plea, informed decisions start with clear legal guidance.
Those seeking to navigate the difference between a charge and a conviction can benefit from learning how the process works in New York. Legal representation can protect rights, evaluate evidence, and offer the best strategies to move forward in difficult circumstances.
About Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C.:
The Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C. is a Long Island-based firm focused on criminal defense. Led by Jason Bassett, a former prosecutor, the firm works with individuals facing criminal charges, helping them understand the legal process and fight for their rights in New York courts.
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Email: bassettlaw@live.com
Website: https://jbassettlaw.com/
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Company Name: Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C.
Contact Person: Jason Bassett
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Phone: (631) 259-6060
Address:320 Carleton Ave Suite 4200
City: Central Islip
State: New York 11722
Country: United States
Website: https://jbassettlaw.com/