If you've been indicted in Rankin or Madison County, Mississippi, you're likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what happens next. The legal process can be confusing, and missing even one important court date can have serious consequences. At Eichelberger Law Firm, we believe that knowing what’s ahead is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
Here are the four critical court dates you need to understand and prepare for:
1. Settlement Conference
Your first major court date after indictment will be your settlement conference.
At the settlement conference, your attorney will meet with the prosecutor to discuss possible resolutions, such as a plea deal or entry into a pretrial intervention program. While those discussions often begin long before the actual date, this conference ensures both sides have the opportunity to talk seriously about resolving the case without a trial. Importantly, the Thursday after this date is usually the deadline to file a guilty plea petition with the court!
Why it matters:
If you don’t show up, the court can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. So even if nothing is finalized at this meeting, your presence is required. Also, you'll need to file a plea petition or a pretrial conference checklist by 5 p.m. on the Thursday following this court appearance.
2. Guilty Plea Date
If you and your attorney decide to enter a plea deal, this is the date by which it must happen. Your guilty plea date is the deadline for appearing before the court and pleading guilty.
Why it matters:
Miss this deadline and two things could happen:
A bench warrant may be issued for your arrest.
The judge may refuse to accept your plea bargain, even if both sides have agreed to it.
Additionally, if your plea agreement includes any time in custody, this is typically the day you’ll report to begin serving that sentence.
3. Pre-Trial Conference
If your case is heading to trial, the court will schedule a pre-trial conference. This date is all about logistics and preparation. Your attorney, the judge, and the prosecutor will review pending motions (like motions to suppress evidence), talk about the number of witnesses expected to testify at trial, and work through the estimated length of the trial.
Why it matters:
This is your last checkpoint before trial. Failing to appear could result in a bench warrant.
4. Trial Date
This is listed on your official court paperwork as a single day, but it’s actually the start of a two-week trial term. That means your trial can be called any day within that period.
Why it matters:
You need to be ready to go on short notice. Your attorney will stay in communication with the court and provide updates, but you should be prepared for trial on any day within that term.
Final Thoughts
At Eichelberger Law Firm, we guide our clients through every step of the process, especially in jurisdictions like Rankin and Madison Counties where things move quickly and missing a date can derail your defense.
Understanding your court dates (and respecting the consequences of missing them) is the first step in taking control of your case.
Need help navigating the process after an indictment? Call us at 601-202-9981 for a confidential consultation.