What Happens at Arraignment?
Nervous about your first court date? Here's a calm, plain-English walkthrough of what typically happens at an arraignment.
Arraignment is usually your first formal court appearance after an arrest, and it's often far less dramatic than people expect. Here's a general overview of what typically happens.
The charges are read
The court formally informs you of the charges being brought against you.
You enter a plea
You'll typically be asked to enter a plea — commonly guilty, not guilty, or no contest — though the specific options and their consequences vary by state and are best discussed with an attorney beforehand.
Bail or release is addressed
The court often addresses bail or release conditions at this stage, considering factors like flight risk and the nature of the charge.
Next dates are set
The court will typically schedule the next steps, such as a preliminary hearing or pretrial conference.
Having an attorney present
Having a defense attorney present at arraignment can help ensure your rights are protected and that any request regarding bail or release is properly made.
Talk to a defense attorney about your specific situation
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