What Happens at an Arraignment in Washington? A Complete Guide

An arraignment is typically one of the initial stages of the criminal justice process after a person has been arrested and/or charged with a crime by the State. If you have been arrested and/or charged with a crime, it is normal to be apprehensive about your first appearance in court. The purpose of an arraignment is to inform a person who has been arrested and/or charged with a crime of the charges filed by the State against him or her and to inform that person of his or her rights as a defendant in a criminal case.

What Is an Arraignment?

An arraignment is the first appearance of a defendant before a judge after a prosecutor has filed formal charges against that person. Typically, at the arraignment, the judge will advise the defendant of the charges against him or her, as well as of the defendant’s rights. The court will then ask the defendant to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest to the charges that have been filed. An arraignment is typically not a hearing on the merits of a case. There is no presentation of evidence by either side, and the defendant is not found guilty or not guilty of the crime(s) charged at the arraignment.

The key function of an arraignment is to set a matter down for trial and schedule subsequent hearings.

What Happens at an Arraignment?

Every case is different but for the most part, an arraignment will follow these general steps.

  1. The Judge Identifies the Defendant

Step 1: The Judge Identifies the Defendant. The judge will make sure that the defendant in the case is present and is the correct person.

  1. The Charges Are Read

This is typically where the Judge will read the charges against you for the first time. You have the right to a copy of the Information or Indictment as well as to a copy of any criminal complaints that were filed against you.

  1. The Court Explains Your Rights

During the arraignment the judge will advise the defendant of his or her constitutional rights. These are typically summarized as follows:

  • The right to remain silent
  • The right to an attorney
  • The right to a trial
  • The right against self-incrimination
  • The right to confront witnesses

Know Your Rights! This is the crucial part. In order to make the best decisions regarding your case, it is vital to be aware of your fundamental rights as a citizen of the United States. By understanding these rights, you can better defend yourself against charges brought by the State.

  1. A Plea Is Entered

The defendant then enters a plea to the charges that have been filed, which can vary by jurisdiction. Typically, a defendant can enter one of the following pleas: Guilty, Not guilty, No contest.

  • Guilty
  • Not guilty
  • No contest (when permitted under applicable law)

In many cases, the defendant intends to enter a not guilty plea at the arraignment. However, by entering a not guilty plea at the arraignment, the defendant would forfeit his right to a later setting of a plea before which he could have time to allow his attorney to investigate the case, interview the necessary witnesses and search for possible defenses after reviewing the evidence against the defendant.

  1. Bail or Release Conditions May Be Reviewed

Bail or Release Conditions May Be Reviewed. If bail has not previously been addressed by the court, at the arraignment the matter may be reviewed by the judge as to whether the defendant should remain in custody, or released on personal recognizance, or released on bail or other conditions.

The court may also impose conditions such as:

  • Travel restrictions
  • No-contact orders
  • Electronic monitoring
  • Regular court appearances

Each of the release conditions set by the court can vary in terms of their specific requirements.

  1. Future Court Dates Are Scheduled

The judge schedules future hearings, which may include:

  • Pretrial conferences
  • Motion hearings
  • Status conferences
  • Trial dates

Your lawyer will explain to you what each future court date is for.

Should You Have an Attorney at an Arraignment?

Yes. It is wise to have a criminal defense attorney prior to your arraignment or at your arraignment.

An attorney can:

  • Explain the charges against you
  • Protect your constitutional rights
  • Advise you before entering a plea
  • Address bail or release conditions
  • Begin reviewing the prosecution’s evidence
  • Develop a defense strategy early in the case

An early experienced criminal defense attorney is better able to prepare the defendant for each stage of the criminal process.

What Should You Wear to an Arraignment?

Your attire for your arraignment will not determine your case but it is very important to dress up for your court appearance to show the court that you respect the process.

Consider wearing:

  • Clean, conservative clothing
  • Business casual attire
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Minimal accessories

Avoid clothing with offensive language or graphics.

What Should You Bring?

Bring any documents your attorney has requested, including:

  • Photo identification
  • Court paperwork
  • Bail documents, if applicable
  • Contact information updates
  • Notes or questions for your attorney

It is wise to arrive at court early in order to go through security at the courthouse as well as go through the check-in process with the particular court where your case is to be heard.

What Happens After an Arraignment?

Your first appearance in criminal court is the first step in your case.

Afterward, your attorney may begin:

  • Reviewing police reports
  • Requesting discovery from prosecutors
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Investigating the facts
  • Filing legal motions
  • Negotiating with prosecutors when appropriate
  • Preparing for trial if necessary

These processes can form the basis of a very strong criminal defense based upon the facts of your case and the applicable law.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Are You Facing an Arraignment?

  • Missing your court date
  • Speaking about your case on social media
  • Contacting alleged victims if prohibited
  • Talking to the police about your case without a lawyer
  • Ignoring court orders or release conditions

Follow your attorney’s advice and protect your legal rights as your case works its way through the system.

Why Choose Mcaleer Law?

Our Washington criminal defense attorneys know that being charged with a crime can be a very scary and confusing time. Our attorneys will be by your side every step of the way as we go through the arraignment, investigation, negotiation and trial (if necessary) of your case. We will explain everything that is happening and all of the options that are available to you.

Clients choose our firm because we offer:

  • Personalized legal representation
  • Thorough case preparation
  • Strategic criminal defense
  • Clear communication
  • Strong courtroom advocacy
  • Commitment to protecting constitutional rights

At Mcaleer Law, our goal with every client is to help them understand the process and do the best possible in their case.

Contact Mcaleer Law Before Your Arraignment

Have you been charged with a crime? Washington criminal charges often begin with a court appearance known as an arraignment. At Mcaleer Law, we can help you protect your rights at every stage of your case – from the very beginning when you first learn of the allegations against you. Call us for a free consultation with a Washington criminal defense attorney.

Schedule a Washington criminal defense attorney consultation with us today. We represent clients with all types of crimes in the region.