What is an arraignment and what can I expect?
The first court appearance is called an arraignment. This is an opportunity for you to make a plea (not guilty, guilty, no contest, etc.) before the judge. The city prosecutor will be available during your arraignment. In order to resolve the matter without the necessity of a trial, the prosecutor may offer a plea bargain a negotiated sentence in return for a plea of guilty. The city prosecutor is the only person who can possibly change the charges, reduce points on your driver s license, dismiss cases, or offer plea agreements. You may speak to the prosecutor at your arraignment date, if you wish. If such a plea agreement is offered, you are not required to accept it. You may still enter a plea of “not guilty” and have a trial.
