Whether you face a misdemeanor or felony charge, the arraignment officially begins your criminal case in court. Guardian Law represents individuals throughout Glendale and Maricopa County, providing strategic and aggressive defense at every stage of the criminal process.
What Is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is the first formal hearing in a criminal case. During this proceeding, the judge:
- Informs you of the charges filed against you
- Advises you of your constitutional rights
- Asks you to enter a plea
- Sets future court dates
Importantly, the arraignment is not a trial. The court does not determine guilt or innocence at this stage. Instead, the hearing formally notifies you of the accusations and moves the case forward.
When Does Arraignment Occur?
The timing depends on how the case began.
- If you were arrested and released, your citation or paperwork will include a court date for arraignment.
- If you remained in custody, the court may conduct an initial appearance first, followed by a formal arraignment.
- If prosecutors obtained a grand jury indictment, arraignment typically occurs after arrest on the warrant.
Because Arizona law requires prompt court appearances, these hearings often happen quickly after charges are filed.
What Happens During the Arraignment?
Although arraignments are usually brief, they follow a structured process.
1. The Case Is Called
When the judge calls your case, you and your attorney approach the front of the courtroom. The judge confirms your identity and reviews the case number.
2. The Charges Are Read
The court formally states the charges against you. These may include:
- Misdemeanor offenses such as assault, DUI, or disorderly conduct
- Felony offenses such as aggravated assault, drug possession for sale, weapons misconduct, robbery, or fraud
The judge may also explain the potential penalties associated with the charges.
3. Advisement of Rights
The judge advises you of important constitutional rights, including:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to an attorney
- The right to a trial
- The right to confront witnesses
- The right to present evidence
If you have not hired a private criminal defense attorney, the court may discuss appointing a public defender if you qualify financially.
4. Entering a Plea
At arraignment, you must enter a plea. The options typically include:
- Not guilty
- Guilty
- No contest
In most cases, defendants enter a not guilty plea. Doing so preserves your rights and allows your attorney to review the evidence before making strategic decisions.
5. Scheduling Future Court Dates
After the plea, the judge schedules future hearings. These may include:
- Pretrial conferences
- Motion hearings
- Settlement conferences
- Trial dates if necessary
If release conditions apply, the court will review or modify them at this stage.
What to Expect If You Are Out of Custody
If you were cited and released or posted bond, you will appear in court on your assigned date. You should:
- Arrive early
- Dress professionally
- Turn off electronic devices
- Address the judge respectfully
Although the arraignment may only last a few minutes, professionalism can influence how the court views your case.
Will You Go to Jail at Arraignment?
In most misdemeanor cases, defendants who were previously released do not go to jail at arraignment. However, failure to appear can result in a bench warrant for your arrest.
In felony cases, especially those involving serious or dangerous allegations, the court may review bond conditions carefully. Violations of release conditions can lead to custody.
What Happens After Arraignment?
After arraignment, your case enters the pretrial phase. This is where most defense work occurs.
Your criminal defense attorney will:
- Review police reports and evidence
- Analyze body camera and surveillance footage
- Examine forensic or lab results
- Identify constitutional violations
- Negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate
- Prepare for trial if necessary
Because early strategy can significantly influence the outcome, immediate preparation is critical.
Why Having an Attorney at Arraignment Matters
Although arraignments are procedural, having experienced legal representation ensures that:
- Your rights are protected
- Appropriate pleas are entered
- Release conditions are addressed
- Early negotiations begin
- A strategic defense plan develops immediately
Even small procedural decisions at arraignment can impact the direction of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an arraignment take?
Most arraignments last only a few minutes once your case is called. However, you may wait in the courtroom until your case is addressed.
Should I plead guilty at arraignment?
In most cases, defendants plead not guilty at arraignment to preserve their rights and allow time to review evidence.
What happens if I miss my arraignment?
The court will likely issue a bench warrant for your arrest. Failing to appear can complicate your case significantly.
Can charges be dismissed at arraignment?
Dismissals rarely occur at arraignment. However, your attorney can begin identifying weaknesses that may lead to dismissal later.
Contact Guardian Law Today
The arraignment marks the official start of your criminal case in Glendale. What you do next can shape the outcome.
Call Guardian Law today at (602) 888-8020 for a confidential consultation.