What Happens at Arraignment

Here is how what happens at arraignment generally works in California, and where to get answers about your own case.

Overview

Arraignment is the first court appearance after an arrest. The judge reads the charges, the person enters a plea and the court may address bail and release conditions.

What Families Should Do

If bail was posted before arraignment, the person must still attend. Missing the hearing can lead to a warrant and can affect a bond.

The Details

A defense attorney can speak for the person. The court may set later dates for hearings, and any conditions of release are lay outed.

Details to Gather First

These details make the first call easier:

The charges, if known
Your own name and phone number
The person's full legal name and date of birth
The booking number, if you have it
The jail or station where the person is held

How Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts Can Help

Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts is based at 220 S. Glendora Ave Suite J, Glendora, CA 91741 and takes calls at (626) 513-8778 (open 24 hours / 7 days). For what happens at arraignment, an agent can explain how bonds work in Los Angeles County, where people are held after an arrest by Monterey Park Police Department, such as Men's Central Jail, and which courthouse, for example Alhambra Courthouse (serving Monterey Park), hears the case.

Keep in Mind

Every case is different. The county, the charge, the judge and the person's history all play a part, so treat general information as a starting point. Confirm details with the court or the facility, and ask a criminal defense attorney about anything that affects the case itself.