Your first appearance, usually called an arraignment, is short. Knowing what happens takes most of the fear out of it.
Before the day
- Confirm the courtroom and time on your paperwork
- Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for security
- Dress as you would for a job interview
- Bring your paperwork, ID and your lawyer’s contact details
In the courtroom
The judge will read the charges, confirm you have a lawyer and ask how you plead. In almost every case your attorney will enter a plea of not guilty so the evidence can be reviewed.
Bail and conditions
The judge may set bail or release conditions. Follow them exactly. A missed check-in can turn a manageable case into a much harder one.
