Criminal cases do take a lot of preparation time, and it is important to remember that accuracy and careful preparation is critical to a successful prosecution. You may find that justice does not always prevail. Sometimes, the guilty are released on procedural grounds. Many homicide cases are never solved or do not result in convictions, even if the identity of the offender is known. Cases may drag on and on.
Many cases never go to trial or take years for a conviction.
If there is a conviction, it likely will be appealed, and a small fraction of cases find their way back to court for another trial. To help you through this ordeal, seek out supportive friends, counselors or advocates. They are there to help you. Ask your county attorney or law enforcement agency to help you get in touch with the victim advocates in your area. Remember, too, that Montana law gives survivors of homicide victims certain rights to information about pending cases and other assistance.