Arraignment

Arraignment

The first court date after the charge is filed with a court is called “arraignment”. This is the appearance date given to the accused when he posts bail.

Arraignment serves several functions:

1. to formally identify the accused as the person charged and notify that person of the exact charge;
2. to enter a plea to the charge (not guilty);
3. to appoint an attorney to assist you in your defense, if you are unable to afford an attorney; and
4. to advise the accused of future court appearance dates, such as pretrial and/or trial settings.

Arraignment may be waived by your attorney in some cases, saving valuable time for everyone.