What to Expect at an Arraignment Hearing
Updated January 24, 2026
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.
Keep Clients Informed Without the Phone Calls
Quilia's client portal keeps your clients engaged with automated updates, reminders, and document collection, so your team can focus on winning cases.