Your first court date, step by step
The first appearance, usually called an arraignment, is short. Knowing what to expect makes it much less frightening.
Before you go
Check the time and courtroom on your notice, and plan to arrive thirty minutes early: there is a security line. Dress as you would for an important meeting. Leave anything that might set off the metal detector at home.
Who will be in the room
The judge, a prosecutor, a clerk, often a bailiff, and many other people with cases on the same docket. Your case may be called quickly or after a long wait. Stay in the courtroom until it is.
What happens
- The judge reads or summarizes the charge
- Your lawyer enters a plea of not guilty for you
- The judge reviews your bond and conditions of release
- A next court date is set
Say very little
The judge may ask whether you understand the charge, and whether you have a lawyer. Answer those questions. Don't explain what happened, even if you're asked or feel the urge. Everything said in court is on the record.
After
Write down the next date and any conditions, such as no alcohol or no contact with a person, and follow them exactly. A broken condition can mean a new arrest, even if the original charge is weak.
A first court date is a beginning, not a verdict. Nobody decides your case that morning.