What to Expect at an Arraignment Hearing
The first court appearance where a criminal defendant is formally charged and enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
Understanding Arraignment
At arraignment, the defendant learns the charges against them, bail is set or reviewed, and a preliminary hearing or trial date may be scheduled. The defendant has the right to an attorney and will be appointed one if they cannot afford counsel.
Examples
- 1Defendant pleading not guilty at first appearance
- 2Judge setting bail amount at arraignment
- 3Public defender appointed for indigent defendant
Related Terms
Bail
Money or property given to the court as a guarantee that the defendant will appear for future court dates. If the defendant appears, bail is returned; if not, it is forfeited.
Plea Bargain
An agreement between the prosecutor and defendant where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge or receives a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding trial.
Felony
A serious crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, such as murder, rape, robbery, or drug trafficking.
Misdemeanor
A less serious crime punishable by up to one year in county jail, fines, probation, or community service.
Probation
A court-ordered period of supervision in the community instead of imprisonment, subject to conditions like regular check-ins, drug testing, and avoiding new crimes.
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