Affidavits can be used in investigations, pretrial proceedings, bail hearings, & warrant applications
Navigating the process of getting into federal court involves filing a complaint, serving the defendant, participating in pretrial procedures, attending court hearings, and presenting evidence. It is important to follow the rules and procedures set by the court and seek legal advice if needed.
The federal government and about half of the states.
Some defendants are held in pretrial detention primarily due to concerns about public safety, the risk of flight, or the possibility of committing further crimes if released. Courts assess factors such as the severity of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, and ties to the community. Pretrial detention aims to ensure that defendants appear for their court dates and maintain the integrity of the judicial process. Additionally, it can serve to protect victims and witnesses from potential retaliation.
Depending on where in the process you are speaking of: "person of interest" - "suspect" - "arrestee" - "defendant. "
Diversion
The federal government and about half of the states.
You cannot. Currently there is no operable process to expunge FEDERAL criminal records.
TRIAL
The suspect becomes the defendant during the arraignment, which is the initial court appearance following arrest. During this stage, the defendant is formally charged and enters a plea. The prosecution may also present preliminary evidence to establish probable cause for the charges, which is essential for moving the case forward.
Any time after arrest (or in custody by an LEO) and before questioning.
They give a starting point for both the prosecution and the defense to begin their investigation. In most cases, the report is inadmissible hearsay, but they give the first statement from the officers about what happened, and who is involved. Both sides use it to begin making lists of witnesses and to begin interviewing those witnesses.