An arraignment is one of the steps of your criminal case. After you have been arrested, you will be ordered to appear at an arraignment to formally advise you of the charges and ask you to enter a plea to the charges. The arraignment must be held soon after arrest, to prevent a violation of your Sixth Amendment right to a speedy trial.
The Arraignment Process
Before the arraignment, you will have been arrested, appeared before a judge to hear your rights and the charges, and appeared at a bail hearing, before the charges can be filed by the prosecution. Once the charges have been formally filed against you, you will make your initial court appearance, called the arraignment.
At the arraignment, you will be given a copy of the:
- Complaint, if you are charged with a Class C misdemeanor
- Information, if you are charged with a Class A or B misdemeanor
- Indictment, if you are charged with a felony
You will have the opportunity to have your charges read in open court. During your arraignment, you will also be able to enter a plea for your case, as well as request a continuance. It is common that a continuance is granted to allow the defense team or prosecutor to proceed with their investigation of the case.
After The Arraignment
Your defense attorney will typically be given access to the state’s case file, including evidence against you, such as videos, 911 call tapes, and confessions. Your lawyer can also enter plea deals on your behalf. Your attorney must inform you of all reasonable plea offers made by the prosecution.
Have You Been Arrested? Get In Touch With Our Plano Criminal Defense Attorneys – (972)525-4963
If you have been arrested on suspicion of criminal charges, your future and freedom may be at stake. You don’t have to face your criminal proceedings alone, however. At Edgett Law Firm, we are here to fight for your rights. Our Plano criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to ensuring that your voice is heard and that you receive fair treatment in every step of your case.
To learn more, call our criminal defense law firm at (972)525-4963 or visit our contact us page to send us an email.
If you have more criminal defense questions, check out our FAQ page.