Arraignments

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What Happens at Your Arraignment

An arraignment is a court appearance in which the judge reads the charges against the defendant, and asks how the defendant would like to plead. Most defendants say, "Not guilty."

Arraignment Basics
The timing of your arraignment depends on your state law.

Typical Issues Handled at Arraignment
Arraignments can serve a variety of functions, such as appointing counsel, setting bail, and planning future court sessions for pre-trial hearings, like motions to suppress evidence.

Negotiating Before the Arraignment
Sometimes it's to your advantage to negotiate a plea before the arraignment--but don't try this without the advice of a good lawyer.

Representing Yourself at Arraignment
Unless you plan to plead not guilty as charged, line up a lawyer first.

Frequently Asked Questions

These questions come up in many cases.

What’s the difference between an arraignment and a trial?
Arraignments are not trials -- they are not concerned with whether the defendant is guilty. They are all about planning how the case will proceed through the courthouse.

Can I be charged again, even when the case was dismissed at arraignment?
Thinking "double jeopardy?" Sorry, it won't apply to a dismissal at arraignment.

What Happens When My Case is Called?
Learn what happens in court when a case is called.