Steps of the Criminal Trial Process in Kentucky
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It begins with a warrant . . .
Criminal charges in Kentucky begin with the issuance of a warrant. A warrant can be created in three different ways
- A criminal citation,
- An arrest warrant, or
- A criminal summons
How Is A Warrant Requested?
The method of applying for a warrant requires the signing of a written document called a complaint. The complaint alleges:
- That a person has committed an offense, and
- The essential facts that constitute the charged offense.
The Warrant Acts as Notice
These warrants direct that the defendant is brought or comes before a court for criminal prosecution. A warrant, therefore, has the dual function of a command to arrest as well as being the official charging instrument (that gives notice of the offense) that must be answered.
Criminal Summons
Once the complaint is executed, the clerk may issue the warrant or summons which must state the offense charged and who should be apprehended for the offense. More than one warrant or summons may be issued on a single complaint if the affidavit of complaint alleges the commission of multiple offenses.
Service of the Warrant
Once the complaint is executed, the clerk may issue the warrant or summons which must state the offense charged and who should be apprehended for the offense. More than one warrant or summons may be issued on a single complaint if the affidavit of complaint alleges the commission of multiple offenses.
