After arrest or indictment, the first court appearance is known as arraignment. 

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At the first court appearance, you will appear before a judge who will:

1. Inform you of the nature of the charges against you,

2. Ask you to state a plea of either: 

   1. Guilty​​

   2. Not Guilty or 

   3. No Contest. 

3. Set bail if you're charged with a bailable offense and not already admitted to bail.

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At this stage, an attorney is essential to argue on your behalf for a low bail/bond. 

Read more about bail.

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If you have not been indicted, then you must be afforded the option of a preliminary hearing. The next step: 

 

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