Understanding the Criminal Process in the Toombs Circuit

At Dallas & Gracey Law Firm, we know one of the most stressful moments for clients is when that first court notice arrives in the mail. Suddenly, you see words like “Pre-Trial” or “Status Conference” on a piece of paper, and the panic sets in: What does this mean? Do I need to meet with my attorney immediately? Am I about to go to trial?

Take a deep breath. We handle these calls every week, and the truth is, most of the time there is no emergency. Here’s what you need to know about how the process works in the Toombs Judicial Circuit.

Step 1: The Pre-Trial Date

In our circuit, the first date you’ll see is called a pre-trial date. Other places call it a calendar call, but it’s the same idea.

At this hearing, your lawyer appears in court and makes a simple announcement to the judge about the status of your case. That’s it. You do not have to testify or explain anything yourself. You simply come with your attorney, and the case is announced.

Often this is just the first time your case appears on the court’s calendar. There are usually many cases set at once, and not all of them are ready for trial. After the pre-trial date, your case might be scheduled for a status day the following week. Sometimes additional dates get sent out ahead of time, but whether you actually need to show up depends on what happens at pre-trial.

Step 2: Discovery and Preparation

Before anything can move forward, your attorney will carefully review the discovery—that’s the evidence, witness statements, reports, and other information the State has provided.

This review takes time. It isn’t efficient to schedule meeting after meeting before the attorney has had a chance to go through everything. Once the review is complete, your lawyer will set up an appointment with you to go over the details together and discuss strategy.

Step 3: Possible Paths Forward

At pre-trial, a few different things can happen:

• Keep the case in jury trial status. This is the most common step early on. It simply means the case will stay on track for a trial unless it’s resolved before then.

• Request a bench trial. That means asking for the judge, instead of a jury, to decide the case. This is a serious decision that involves giving up certain rights, so it’s not something to rush into.

• Reach a resolution (plea deal). Sometimes offers come before pre-trial, sometimes at pre-trial, and sometimes even later. Even if an offer isn’t good, your attorney must communicate it to you—it’s your case, and the final decision is yours.

Why Things Feel “Up in the Air”

It’s normal for court dates and notices to change. It’s also normal not to have an offer from the District Attorney until the case gets closer to trial. That uncertainty can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t mean your case is being ignored. It’s simply the way the process works in this circuit.

What You Should Do

1. Stay in touch with our office. If you think of questions, call us. Even if your attorney can’t answer right away, staff will get your message directly in front of them.

2. Don’t panic when a notice arrives. Court calendars are broad and often include multiple dates that may or may not apply to you.

3. Trust the process. Your attorney will review discovery, talk to witnesses if needed, and then meet with you to go over everything before any major decision is made.

Final Word

We understand this is stressful—especially if this is your first time in the criminal system. You don’t have to navigate it alone. Our job is to make sure you know what’s happening, what to expect, and that you never feel left in the dark.

If you have questions about your upcoming pre-trial or want to better understand your case, call us. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

This post is for general information only and is not legal advice. For help with your specific case, please contact our office to speak with an attorney.