Do I need an attorney to answer a summons?

Do I need an attorney to answer a summons?

If you receive a summons and complaint, this typically means that you are being sued by someone. Rather, you must file a written answer with the court by the deadline stated on the summons. Generally, if you receive a summons you should contact an attorney. However, you can also answer a summons without an attorney.

What does it mean to be charged but not convicted?

Finally, you may be charged, go to trial and be acquitted (found “not guilty”). In all of these situations, you have been arrested but not convicted. You are not guilty of a crime. Conviction – A conviction means that you have been found guilty of a crime by a court or that you have agreed to plead guilty to a crime.

Is there a difference between being charged and convicted?

Being charged with a crime merely means that the government has formally accused a person of a crime. A person charged with a crime is, by law, Innocent. Being convicted of a crime means that the person has plead guilty or has been found guilty after trial. A person convicted of a crime is, by law, Guilty.

What is the difference between an allegation and a charge?

Allegation: a claim or assertion that someone has done something illegal or wrong, typically one made without proof. Accusation: a charge or claim that someone has done something illegal or wrong. Charge: accuse (someone) of something, especially an offense under law.

Can I have a criminal record without going to court?

What if I never go to court? If you do not get a Court Attendance Notice for your offence, it will not go on your criminal record. Some criminal offences can be dealt with either in court, or by way of a ‘ticket’. This is usually a matter of discretion for the police.

Do criminal records get wiped?

Most convictions become spent after 10 crime free years for adult offenders and 3 crime free years for child offenders. This means the conviction will no longer be part of your record.