Attorney Dan Chambers recently hosted a 21-part video series designed to demystify the criminal procedure process in Southern California. He has been an attorney in Southern California for decades, so he intimately knows all the nuances of the processes for both misdemeanor and felony cases.
The first two videos in this series feature an introductory overview of the purpose of the series, then helpful information about the misdemeanor arrest and bail issues. This next video is about misdemeanor arraignment procedures—the next step in the process after an individual is arrested for an alleged misdemeanor crime.
What happens after your arrest
After you are arrested and either taken into police custody or simply issued a citation indicating your arraignment court date, the investigating agency that handled you arrest will then submit your case to the District Attorney’s office for filing consideration.
Your right to information
You have a right to receive a copy of this complaint against you. You’ll receive it sometime in-between the date of your arrest and your arraignment court date. Additionally, at your court date, you will receive a copy of the complaint, as well as your arrest report. The judge will also inform you of the charges against you.
How to avoid wasting time at your arraignment
Just about anyone who decides to hire an attorney to represent him doesn’t have to appear at the arraignment. The attorney may appear on his or her behalf in the majority of cases. It’s one of the most important rights Californians have in misdemeanor cases under Penal Code section 977a.
When Attorney Dan Chambers appears at your arraignment on your behalf, you won’t have to waste time in court, and you won’t have to take any time off work to go to court.
Entering a plea
Arraignments are very straight-forward—at your arraignment, you’ll be entering a “not guilty” plea. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you think you’re not guilty of the crime you have been accused of—it just means that you’d like to go through the court process.
If you enter a “guilty” plea right off the bat, you will be sentenced immediately without an opportunity to allow Attorney Chambers to defend you. It’s almost always best to enter a “not guilty” plea at your arraignment.
Got more questions?
You likely have many more questions about your specific misdemeanor case. All of our prospective clients are entitled to a free consultation with Attorney Chambers. Schedule yours now by calling 714-760-4088, emailing dchambers@clfca.com, or by using the chat box below.
