What happens if you are arrested?
A person, called a defendant, who is arrested for breaking a criminal law, is held by the police or sheriff until a bond is set or an arraignment takes place. An arraignment usually occurs within 24 hours of the arrest and is the initial step of the court process. The arraignment is held before a district court judge or magistrate. During the arraignment the defendant is formally charged with an offense, told his or her constitutional rights, and of the possible penalties. The defendant will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty, bond will be set, and a date for the next hearing will be scheduled.

The court may appoint an attorney to represent the defendant if the defendant is unable to afford an attorney. Defendants should ask the court if they qualify for court appointed counsel.

The arresting police department will know where and when the arraignment will take place.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Criminal Case?
2. What are the 2 levels of criminal cases?
3. Do defendants have rights to attorneys?
4. What happens if you are arrested?
5. How are crimes classified?
6. What does a misdemeanor entail?
7. What does a felony entail?
8. What are the 4 types of bonds?