What happens at an arraignment in Massachusetts?
The arraignment is for reading the charges and determining what the defendant would like to do with their case. The case can’t be disposed of on this date unless the criminal defendant agrees to do so. If another court date is set, it will most likely be for a pre-trial conference.
Does an arraignment mean your going to jail?
Can You Go to Jail at an Arraignment? You do not go to jail at an arraignment. An arraignment is just the opportunity for you to hear what the charges against you are and for you to respond legally to those charges with a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
Does arraignment mean trial?
An arraignment is a pre-trial hearing in front of a judge, sometimes called an initial appearance. At arraignments, defendants learn about their constitutional rights and the charges against them.
Do I need an attorney for my arraignment?
You do not legally need an attorney during an arraignment hearing. The arraignment is not your criminal trial.
Is arraignment the same as sentencing?
An arraignment is a pre-trial proceeding, sometimes called an initial appearance. The criminal defendant is brought in front of a judge at a lower court. If the defendant enters a guilty plea, the judge may set a sentencing date.
Is arraignment the same as initial appearance?
An arraignment is a pre-trial proceeding, sometimes called an initial appearance. The criminal defendant is brought in front of a judge at a lower court. Usually during an arraignment, the criminal defendant pleads guilty or not guilty. Typically, the plea is not guilty.
What is an arraignment in Massachusetts?
An arraignment is usually the first court date in a criminal charge. There are 3 common ways that you could end up at a Massachusetts district court arraignment. If you were arrested, your first court appearance is the arraignment, usually the next business day.
What is the procedure for resolving a case at arraignment?
The procedure for resolving a case at arraignment varies slightly at each court, but in general the process will include the following: You may be asked directly during the arraignment if you want to take care of the matter today.
When does a defendant have to appear in court for arraignment?
Defendants who are released on bail prior to the issuance of a complaint or those who receive a summons must be ordered to appear in court for their arraignment on a date certain. Courts may establish their own policy on whether that date falls on the same day of every week or within a particular time frame.
What happens on the day of the arraignment?
On the day of the arraignment, the probation department shall interview the defendant; the probation department shall report to the court the pertinent information reasonably necessary to determine the issues of bail and indigency. (D) determine the conditions of the defendant’s release, if any.