Arraignments

Arraignment Basics

A typical arraignment consists of some or all of the following:

Typical Issues Handled at Arraignment

The primary purpose of an arraignment is to give the defendant written notice of the charged crime(s) and take the defendant’s plea. In addition, the judge may do any of the following.

Criminal Arraignment: What to Expect

The arraignment is often the first court appearance following an arrest or criminal citation. Here's what happens.

Vacating a Criminal Conviction in California

Certain defendants who entered no contest or guilty pleas, and who have completed their sentences, may apply to the court to vacate their convictions if they can show that they did not understand the immigration consequences of their pleas, or evidence exists of actual innocence.

What's the Difference Between an Arraignment and a Trial?

An arraignment is a court hearing in which defendants are told of the charges against them. At a trial before a jury or a judge, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant committed the crime.