What to Expect After Being Charged With a Crime in Hawaii

Getting charged with a crime in Hawaii can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. Whether it happened in Honolulu, Maui, or on another island, the legal system moves quickly—and you need to be ready. This guide walks you through what to expect after an arrest, what your rights are, and how a strong criminal defense attorney like Jason Z. Say can help protect your future.

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Understanding the Hawaii Criminal Process

Once you're charged, the criminal process begins immediately. You may be taken into custody, issued a citation, or asked to appear in court on a specific date. The seriousness of the charge—misdemeanor or felony—determines how the process plays out.



From the very beginning, Jason works to reduce the impact of the charge. That could mean negotiating bail, requesting early hearings, or intervening to avoid charges altogether when possible. Every decision matters at this stage.

What Happens After an Arrest in Honolulu or Maui

While each county may follow slightly different procedures, the overall steps after an arrest in Hawaii typically include:

  • Arraignment – Your first court appearance where the charges are read and you enter a plea. This is not your trial.

  • Bail hearing – Determines if you’ll be released or held while awaiting trial.

  • Discovery phase – Both sides exchange evidence. Jason uses this time to dissect the case, identify flaws, and prepare your defense.

  • Motions and hearings – Requests may be filed to dismiss evidence or challenge the way the arrest was handled.

  • Trial or plea deal – Depending on the strength of the case, Jason may push for dismissal, negotiate favorable terms, or fight for you in court.

Having an attorney who knows the ins and outs of Oahu’s and Maui’s court systems—especially judges and prosecutors—can shape the outcome of each stage.

What Should I Do After a Criminal Charge in Hawaii?

Don’t wait. The decisions you make in the first 24–48 hours can change the entire course of your case. Here’s what to prioritize:

  • Hire a Hawaii criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

  • Don’t talk to police or investigators without legal representation.

  • Avoid discussing your case with friends, family, or online.

  • Save any evidence that could help you—texts, videos, names of witnesses.

  • Attend all court dates and stay in contact with your lawyer.

Jason works quickly to protect your rights, prepare a defense, and begin limiting the damage from the start. The earlier he’s involved, the more options you’ll have.

Possible Outcomes & What They Mean for You

No two cases are the same, but some potential outcomes after being charged in Hawaii include:

  • Dismissal of charges – Often possible if the case is weak or evidence is faulty

  • Plea bargain – Reduces charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea

  • Trial verdict – A judge or jury decides guilt

  • Deferred acceptance of guilty plea (DAGP) – A Hawaii-specific option allowing dismissal if you complete certain terms

  • Conviction – May lead to jail, fines, probation, and long-term consequences

Jason’s goal is to avoid conviction entirely. But when that’s not possible, he fights for outcomes that protect your future—like avoiding jail, protecting your job, or keeping your record clean through expungement.

Local Knowledge Makes a Difference

Hawaii’s court system has unique characteristics. On Oahu, the Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office may handle domestic violence charges differently than a smaller court on Maui. Local judges have reputations. Police departments follow patterns. Even what time your case is scheduled can affect how it’s handled.



Jason has represented clients in Honolulu, Lahaina, Wailuku, and across the islands. He knows what matters in Hawaii’s courtrooms—and how to help you move forward with as little disruption as possible.

What If I Was Falsely Accused or Charged Without Proof?

It happens more than most people think. Whether the result of a misunderstanding, a bad police stop, or someone trying to gain leverage in a relationship dispute, false charges can be devastating.



Jason builds the strongest possible defense by challenging the evidence, tracking inconsistencies, and fighting to clear your name completely. If your case fits this scenario, let’s talk right away.

The Sooner You Act, the More We Can Do

Being charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty—and it doesn’t mean your life is over. But the clock starts ticking the moment it happens.



Let Jason Z. Say stand between you and the system. Call now to schedule a confidential consultation and take control of your defense.