What Happens at an Arraignment?

An arraignment is the very first part of the courtroom proceedings in criminal cases. It is your first appearance in front of a judge, at which time you will be informed of the crimes with which you have been charged.

Arraignments are required under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution as a way to protect against legal authorities holding people accused of crimes in custody for a lengthy period of time without telling them why. Therefore, arraignments usually happen shortly after a custodial arrest.

The first step is to have the accused appear in court for advisement of the charges and the right to legal representation. Bail is then set, and subsequent proceedings are scheduled.

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime in Pennsylvania, speak with skilled Reading criminal law attorney David R. Eshelman.