Criminal procedure generally begins with a formal criminal charge and concluding with the conviction or acquittal of the defendant. The burden of proof is on the prosecution who must prove that the defendant is guilty beyond any reasonable doubt. Defendants are allowed the right to legal counsel and if unaffordable, may use a lawyer paid for at the public expense. Criminal procedures are designed to enforce the constitutional rights of criminal suspects and defendants, beginning with initial police contact and continuing through arrest, investigation, trial, sentencing, and appeals.

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