Understanding Criminal Procedure and Arraignment in California

Arraignment Process in Sacramento

An arraignment is a hearing in open court where a judge formally reads the charge or charges to a defendant and asks the defendant how they plead. 

While the precise timing of arraignment varies, it usually needs to occur within a reasonable time of the defendant being arrested and charged. Arraigning the defendant at an early stage ensures their case is progressing and they're not spending more time in custody than necessary. 

The specific procedures and rules for arraignment vary between jurisdictions. In addition to reading the charges and taking the defendant's plea, a court may also read out the substance of the charges, confirm that the defendant understands them, and inform the defendant of their relevant constitutional rights, such as their right to a court-appointed lawyer. 

The judge may also decide bail and list the later court hearings for the matter, including a sentencing hearing, pretrial conferences, or a trial. 

If you or a loved one has been arrested, you need the criminal defense of Law Office of Mathew Martinez. Fill out a contact form or call us at (916) 318-5142 to schedule a free consultation to learn more. 

Arraignment Versus Indictment in Sacramento

An arraignment is different from an indictment. While an arraignment is an opportunity for a defendant to hear the charges against them and enter a plea, an indictment is a legal document formally charging a defendant with a crime. 

A defendant can be charged by law enforcement authorities or by an indictment issued by a legal authority, such as a prosecutor. Once a defendant has been charged, their matter proceeds to an arraignment hearing. 

Whether a defendant can be charged by law enforcement or an indictment depends on the specific charge and relevant laws of the jurisdiction. 

In some states, a grand jury must issue an indictment. A grand jury is a group of impartial, randomly selected citizens who hear from the prosecution and witnesses before deciding whether there is enough evidence for the defendant to be charged. 

Understanding Pleas at an Arraignment in California

When a judge asks a defendant how they plead to a charge during an arraignment hearing, a defendant can enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. 

A guilty plea indicates the defendant accepts the charges and allegations. By entering a guilty plea, the matter will proceed to sentence either immediately after the arraignment or at a later date. 

A not guilty plea indicates the defendant is contesting the allegations and the matter will proceed to a trial at a later date. 

A no contest plea indicates the defendant is accepting a conviction for the charge but not admitting guilt. Like a guilty plea, the matter will proceed to sentence either immediately after arraignment or at a later date.