What happens at a preliminary hearing?
During the preliminary hearing, usually within 10 court days of the arraignment, the district attorney’s office must present evidence showing a reasonable suspicion that a felony was committed and that you did it to convince the judge that you should be brought to trial. You may have a second arraignment. If the felony Charges are not dropped at the preliminary hearing, you will be arraigned in superior court where your trial later will be held. If you are charged with a crime and unable to understand English, you have a right to an interpreter throughout the proceedings.
