What happens in a sentencing hearing?
A sentencing hearing will take place only if you are found guilty at a trial or if you agree to plead guilty. The court proceeding is handled by the judge, who will use the recommendations of the prosecutor and your lawyer and use the sentencing guidelines to decide what your punishment will be. You always have the right to speak at your sentencing hearing.

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1. Are public defenders “real lawyers”?
2. Since you’re paid by the government the same as prosecutors, aren’t you just working together?
3. Can I call or drop by the Whatcom County Public Defender Office for some quick legal advice?
4. What is an arraignment?
5. What is a status or omnibus hearing?
6. What happens in a trial?
7. What happens in a sentencing hearing?
8. What is a bench warrant, and what can I do if I have one?
9. Why hasn’t my public defender gotten my case dropped?
10. If I have a problem with my court-appointed lawyer, how do I complain?
11. What can I do to help out my case?
12. How do I get my record vacated/sealed?