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What To Expect At Your Arraignment Hearing

The arraignment hearing is an essential step in the state’s justice system after your initial conviction. You’ll finally know what charges you’re facing and have a chance to defend yourself in court. Read on to learn more about how the process works, how to prepare, and how our defense lawyers can help you build a strong defense.

How Does An Arraignment Hearing Work?

An arraignment hearing is the first time you go in front of a judge over a crime. During this process, the prosecutor will give you an overview of your charges and legal rights, including the right to a lawyer.

From there, you’ll need to enter a plea of “guilty” or “not guilty.” If you plead not guilty, you’ll have another hearing where the judge further reviews your case’s details. But if you’re guilty, the judge will punish you based on the details of your crime. Your criminal defense attorney may also try negotiating with the prosecutor without going to court.

The hearing’s aftermath depends on your plea or if your case even goes to trial in the first place. 95% of cases don’t, and those that do tend to be more serious in nature. In this case, your defense strategy becomes more critical as it could determine the entire trial’s outcome.

Can You Miss An Arraignment Hearing?

In most cases, arraignment hearings are mandatory. Failing to show up or “bail jumping” will lead to a bench warrant for your arrest, fines, and even jail time. The judge might also add further charges on top of the original crime.

Thankfully, missing an initial arraignment date won’t automatically put you in hot water. New York gives you a 30-day grace period to reschedule before the prosecutor issues a warrant.  Your lawyer can also submit an arraignment waiver and plead “not guilty” if you know you won’t be able to show up or they need more time to build their legal strategy.

How To Prepare For Your Arraignment Hearing

If you’re unsure about how to prepare for your arraignment properly, here’s what you need to do:

  • Show Up On Time: Unless your lawyer filed an arraignment waiver, you’ll need to show up to the hearing at the specified time. Not doing so leads to serious legal penalties and makes it much harder for the prosecutor to rule in your favor.
  • Stay Calm And Professional: Going through the legal process is stressful, but try to stay as calm as possible. Respond to the prosecutor’s questions appropriately and avoid saying more than you need to.
  • Have Your Lawyer Present: Some people may believe a lawyer is unnecessary, especially in an open-and-shut case. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. A reliable defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, build a strong case, and defend your rights in court.

Our Attorneys Are Here To Help 

Every part of the arraignment process could impact your case. Hiring a reliable lawyer who understands the law will make this process easier. Since 1952, our New York criminal defense lawyers have helped thousands of clients defend their rights in court. We’ll help you build a strong case and increase the chances of a positive outcome. Please contact us online or call us at (866) 839-5886 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case’s details today.