A statute often begins as an idea to help society function better.  The idea can come from a citizen, an advocacy group, another state, or an elected representative.  The idea is written down in rulemaking language and presented to the appropriate legislative body: (the elected representative’s colleagues in Congress or in a state legislature). Once an idea is written down and presented to the appropriate legislative body, it becomes a bill.  A bill is reviewed by legislative committees and read by elected representatives.  Generally, for a bill to become law, it must be supported by a majority of the state legislature or congress.  If a bill is supported by a majority of the state legislature or congress, it is considered to have “passed” and is sent to the Governor of the State or the President of the United States for their approval.  If the Governor supports and signs a bill, it becomes state law.  If a President supports and signs a bill, it becomes federal law.  Once a bill has been signed into law, it is codified (reduced to, or arranged into a statute).

Criminal Law Sub-categories

Appeal Arraignment Arrest Information Bail Hearings & Criminal Civil Versus Criminal Law Criminal Justice Process Criminal Trial Date Rape

Expungement Grand Jury Indictment Hiring a Lawyer Miranda warnings Plea Negotiations Sentencing and Sanctions The 4th Amendment and Search Warrants