Arraignment

Do you know what happens after an arrest?

Hopefully, you don’t ever have to find out. But if you are arrested, you’ll want to know about the legal proceedings that will follow.

First, and foremost, if you are arrested, your first call should be to criminal defense attorney Michael Anzalone. The next step is what is called an arraignment.

Under state law, an arraignment is your first appearance in court. This is when you are formally advised of what charges the state will bring against you. At this time, you are asked whether you want to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or _ in some cases _ a plea of NOLO, or no contest plea. This, for all intents and purposes, is the same as a guilty plea but it offers you some form of protection if you anticipate ever being sued for whatever conduct you are accused of.

Legally, you will have a conviction on your record if you enter a NOLO plea.

These types of hearings are fairly routine and rarely last long.

State law says that your attorney can waive this hearing for you and have a not guilty plea entered on your behalf. In this case, a trial date is then set by a judge. However, some district courts allow “local rules” that require your presence at such a hearing, so your attorney can advise you on this. It all depends on the circumstances of your case.

When you hire The Anzalone Law Firm, we will explain this process to you and your family. And our team of legal experts will be by your side throughout this entire process.

The state outlines what types of hearings are required.

If you are accused of a felony, you’ll be required, for example, to enter a not guilty plea in district court. A probable cause hearing will then be scheduled during which prosecutors will lay out the “probable cause” for your arrest.

The next step is to send your case to superior court where you will be indicted, which means formally charged, with the felony offense.

You’ll want to make sure that you hire a criminal defense attorney who is well-versed in state law and the judicial system.

Along the way, Michael Anzalone fight for your rights and make recommendations that can help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.

Whether we feel it is best for you to make some kind of plea arrangement or go through with a full-blown trial, it’s our goal to get the best outcome in your case.

We understand that an arrest on any charge can wreck your life. After an arrest _ even before a conviction _ your reputation could be tarnished, you could lose your job and your family might be very embarrassed.

Remember, you should call The Anzalone Law Firm as soon as you are arrested. Our legal associates will be there for you 24/7. Please call us for a free consultation with Michael Anzalone today.