An arraignment hearing is when someone charged with a crime appears before a judge or magistrate to answer to the charges against him/her. The purpose of this hearing is for advisement and to determine how to proceed with the case.
An arraignment hearing means that the defendant has been formally charged with a crime. For misdemeanors, this is usually done by the police department filing the ticket served on the defendant. If the defendant pleads not guilty when appearing before a judge or magistrate, they will set a trial date.
The law states that anyone who commits an act contrary to a criminal statue is guilty. For example, if a person drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol is guilty of DUI.
If you are charged with a crime, you should appear in court at the stated time and place, unless a bond requires otherwise. If you made bail or other release options, you most likely will have been given a different date..
At an arraignment hearing, you may enter a plea or continue the case without a plea. If the police have not filed your ticket, the court loses jurisdiction over your case.
If you are arrested by police, you should not resist arrest. It is illegal to fight with law enforcement officers. However, if you feel threatened or injured, call 911 immediately.
What Happens After An Arrest?
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