Oct 6, 2025
How California Criminal Arraignments Work
Charged with a crime in California? Here's what happens at your arraignment:
✓ The judge reads the charges against you
✓ You enter your plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
✓ Bail is set or modified
✓ You get your next court date
This is NOT your trial, but a chance to understand your charges and hire a defense attorney.
Your arraignment sets the tone for your entire case. So show up on time, dress respectfully, and let your attorney do the talking.
