An arraignment is your first court appearance after being charged with a crime. It's usually short — often less than 10 minutes — but a few important things happen, and what you do at this hearing affects the rest of the case. Here's exactly what to expect.
You're formally told what you're being charged with, what statute applies, and the maximum penalties. If you don't understand, you can — and should — ask the judge to explain.
Three options: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Almost everyone pleads not guilty at arraignment, even if they intend to plead guilty later — it preserves your right to negotiate before locking anything in.
If you weren't released earlier, the judge addresses bail at arraignment. Your lawyer can argue for release on your own recognizance, lower bail, or specific conditions like check-ins or monitoring.
If you can't afford an attorney, the court can appoint one at arraignment. You'll be asked about your income and assets. Even if you plan to hire private counsel, accepting a PD for the arraignment itself is fine.
Pretrial conferences, motion deadlines, and sometimes a trial date are set. You'll receive paperwork — keep it. Missing any future date can mean a bench warrant.
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