The Arraignment Process When Facing Criminal Charges
Facing Pennsylvania criminal charges can be a frightening experience. You may not know what to expect or how to navigate the criminal justice system. One of the first steps in this process is known as arraignment. Below, we explain what an arraignment is, what happens during the process, and why it is important to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer by your side during this time.
What Is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is a formal court hearing where an individual who has been charged with a crime is brought before a judge to hear the charges against them. During this hearing, the defendant will be informed of their constitutional rights, including the right to a criminal defense attorney. The judge will also explain the charges and potential penalties the defendant faces.
What Happens During the Arraignment?
During arraignment, the defendant will be asked to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. It is important to note that this is not a trial, and evidence will not be presented now. The purpose of an arraignment is for the defendant to formally respond to the charges and for the court to set bail if necessary.
If the defendant pleads guilty, the Pennsylvania criminal charges case will move on to sentencing. If they plead not guilty, a trial date will be set. And if they plead no contest, it means they are not disputing the charges but are not admitting guilt. In some cases, the defendant may also have the option to enter a plea deal during arraignment.
Why Is Having a Criminal Defense Lawyer Important During Arraignment?
Having a skilled criminal defense lawyer by your side during the arraignment hearing can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Your lawyer will review the charges and evidence against you to help determine the best course of action for your defense. They can also negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf to potentially secure a more favorable plea deal.
Additionally, an experienced lawyer can argue for a lower bail amount or even for release without bail if they believe it is appropriate in the case of your Pennsylvania criminal charges. This can greatly benefit the defendant as it allows them to continue living their life and preparing for their case while out of jail.
The Travis Law Firm: Criminal Defense Lawyers
Contact our experienced criminal defense team today at The Travis Law Firm to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help defend your rights. Don’t wait until arraignment to seek legal representation – call us today for experienced and dedicated criminal defense assistance. Your future may depend on it. We can be reached at (814) 277-2222, and you always have the option of contacting us online. We handle a wide variety of criminal charges, including theft, DUI, federal crimes and weapons. So, it is always advisable to consult a PA criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after being charged with a crime to ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance at a favorable outcome.