If you have never been handcuffed before, you may not know the process. More than one inmate is usually left asking – what is an arraignment hearing?
Luckily, this stage of the legal proceedings doesn’t need to be the scariest one. When you need more information, call Gibson Bail Bonds 24-hours a day.
What is an Arraignment Hearing? And Why Do I Need One?
Many people see “hearing” and immediately think they are getting put on trial. However, as the first step, there aren’t too many things to worry about now.
When you go to an arraignment, you meet a magistrate or judge. Here, they will explain several pieces of information, including:
- Charge Details
- Bail Amounts
- Approved or Unapproved Bail
- Documentation of Charges
- Advice on Rights
- Released or Detained Status
- Preliminary Hearing Date
- And more information
At this time, you may be considered too dangerous to release, or have expensive bail. Unless you take out a surety bond, you could be stuck there until your trial.
What Do I Plead at an Arraignment Hearing?
What many new inmates fail to understand is that you don’t enter a plea yet. At the arraignment, you are still not considered guilty or not guilty for your charges. And since the evidence isn’t presented at this time, you do nothing more than listen.
Although you aren’t defending yourself yet, you may have a lawyer present anyways. If you can make bail or secure a bond, you can usually leave before trial. Otherwise, you must remain detained until it’s time to defend yourself in court.
Is an Arraignment Hearing a Bench Trial?
While an arraignment hearing may appear similar to a bench trial, they are different. An arraignment is a preliminary face-to-face that allows the state to charge you formally.
A bench trial, although similar in appearance, is a type of court without jury members. Because you only see a judge during these proceedings, it’s easy to confuse them. However, during bench trials, you do need to defend your plea with supporting evidence. At an arraignment hearing, you don’t need to present anything until the actual case.
How Much is My Bail at Arraignment Hearings?
First, the good news; Unless you committed crimes punishable by the death penalty, you would likely have bail set.
Both misdemeanors and felonies can offer release amounts, but only if you aren’t a danger. Other times, however, you may receive a status of ROR, or Released on Own Recognizance. What that means is that, by just agreeing to reappear at court, you go home. That is usually for minor infractions and situations where you aren’t considered a flight risk.
When Do I Need Bail?
Once you meet the magistrate, they will inform you of your bail amount. However, now you must find a way to get the cash to the jail. One way to move ahead is by calling surety agents before your arraignment hearing. Contact us at Gibson Bail Bonds for 24-hour service.
