What Happens During A Florida Arraignment?

Getting arrested in Florida is a much more complicated process than meets the eye. Generally speaking, the order of events looks something like this: crime, arrest, Miranda Rights, phone call, inventory search, booking, arraignment, and jail. Of course, the specifics vary depending on your case. At every step of the way, there actually are (or should be) processes and procedures put in place to protect YOUR rights. Of course, if this does not happen we are the first to bring that to the attention of the prosecutor and judge in your case.

A Florida arraignment is a time of many firsts. Your arraignment is the first time in which you hear the formal criminal charges against you, the first time you and your attorney go before the court and the first time you will have the chance to speak for yourself.

In many instances, you will be held in jail during the time leading up to the arraignment so making it to court on time will be a given. In those scenarios in which you are not being held in jail, it is imperative that you show up to court when you are supposed to. Missing a court appearance will result in a bench warrant for your arrest and additional charges against you. If you feel like you cannot make your arraignment, make sure to deal with this issue ahead of time and avoid starting off your criminal process on the wrong foot.

The general order of a Florida arraignment goes like this:

1. The court calls you to appear
2. The formal criminal charge against you is read including details such as the date, time and location of the offence
3. You are asked how you plead to the charges against you

You have three plea options after the judge reads the charges against you: guilty, not guilty and no contest. Before you plea, you should speak at length with your attorney about what each of the options means for your future. Even if there is an overwhelming amount of evidence against you, Florida judges cannot question a “not guilty” plea.

In addition to the three points noted above, the court will also set bail in your case if it applies.  Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, a conviction can have a life-changing effect on you. Working with a criminal defense attorney will show the court that you are serious about fighting the charges against you.

If you have recently been arrested for a crime, get in touch with the attorneys at Finebloom & Haenel P.A. before your arraignment. We will review your case and work with you to ensure that the arraignment process goes smoothly. We have years of experience working within the Florida criminal justice system and will work hard to get you the best results possible. Give us a call today for a free consultation on your case. We are available 24/7 to take your call.