What is Probable Cause? Probable cause means there is enough evidence to cause a reasonable belief that a crime was committed and that the defendant committed it. Probable cause is a concept that is important in several aspects of criminal law. This post deals with...
What is a Preliminary Hearing in General Sessions Court in Tennessee? In a preliminary hearing in Tennessee's General Sessions Court, the judge determines whether there is probable cause to continue to the next phase of criminal prosecution. If you are charged with...
Do I Have to Go to Court if Nobody wants to Press Charges? Yes. The District Attorney’s office decides whether to prosecute someone for a crime; it is not up to a private individual to “press charges.” If you do not show up for court, the judge will issue a bench...