What Happens at an Arraignment in Van Nuys Courthouse?

An arraignment is a defendant's first appearance before the court. At the Van Nuys Courthouse, the judge informs the defendant of the criminal charges, takes a plea, and rules on pretrial release while the case proceeds. Arraignment hearings are typically short-something on the order of a few minutes-but are where some of the most important decisions for the case are made. If you or a loved one has a present in Van Nuys, learn what happens and what your Van Nuys arraignment judge will ask.

_{What Is an Arraignment?}

An arraignment is the court's way of telling you what you are being accused of. It is not a trial and no one will determine your guilt or innocence at this stage. The judge will not listen to evidence and the prosecutor doesn't have to prove anything.

At the arraignment, the court will typically:

• Confirm your identity and that you have received the complaint
• Inform you of the charges and the possible penalties
• Advise you of your constitutional rights
• Ask you to enter a plea
• Address bail, release, and other conditions
• Set the date for the next hearing

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_{When Does the Arraignment Happen?}

The timing depends on whether you are in custody.

If you were arrested and are in custody: California law allows you to be taken before a judge within 48 hours (excluding Sundays and court holidays) of your arrest. If charges are not filed by this time, you should be released.

If you were cited and released, or released on bail: Your paperwork will tell you when and where your court date is. It could be weeks away. Don't miss it. If you miss a court date, the court can issue a bench warrant for your arrest and file more charges against you.

If you are under investigation but have not been arrested: You might get a notice or hear about a case that has already been filed. However, an attorney can verify the court records and may be able to set up a voluntary appearance to prevent you from being taken into custody at your residence or your place of employment.

Always read the court notice carefully to determine the specific courthouse and department. Many criminal cases in the San Fernando Valley may be heard in Van Nuys, however, the location can depend on the charge and the type of case.

_{What to Expect on the Day of Your Arraignment?}

Van Nuys is a busy court. Arraignment calendars can include dozens of cases, so plan for a long morning even if your case is called quickly.

Before you go in:

• Arrive early. Allow time for parking and security screening.
• Dress neatly and conservatively. First impressions matter in court.
• Bring your court paperwork, photo ID, and any documents your attorney asked for.
• Leave anything prohibited at home. Expect metal detectors and bag checks.
• Turn your phone off and be ready to wait.

In the courtroom: The judge will read the case and ask you to stand with your lawyer. The judge will then read the complaints and you will be asked to enter a plea. Your attorney is able to comment on conditions of bail or how you will be released.

_{What Are Your Plea Options?}

The plea you enter at arraignment has long-term effects. You generally have three options:

• Not guilty: This is the most common plea at arraignment. It preserves all your rights, keeps every defense available, and gives your attorney time to review the evidence. Pleading not guilty does not mean you are claiming to be a perfect person; it means you are requiring the prosecution to prove its case.
• Guilty: You admit the charges, and the court can move straight to sentencing. This is rarely wise at arraignment, before the evidence has been reviewed.
• No contest (nolo contendere): You do not dispute the charges, and the court treats it like a guilty plea for sentencing purposes. It can have different consequences in related civil cases, but it should only be considered after talking with an attorney.

In most cases, a defense attorney will recommend pleading not guilty at arraignment so the case can be investigated before any decisions are made.

_{How Are Bail and Release Decided?}

After the plea, the judge addresses whether you will be released while the case is pending. The options typically include:

• Release on your own recognizance (OR): You are released on your promise to return to court, with no money required.
• Bail: A set amount that can be posted by cash or through a bail bond company.
• Supervised release or conditions: For example, check-ins, stay-away orders, or electronic monitoring.
• No release: In serious cases, the court may hold a person in custody.

The court looks at the crime charged, your criminal record, your ties to the community, public safety and your flight risk. The court will also look at your ability to pay, and a lawyer can ask for a hearing to decide if the bail is just. A lawyer at arraignment will help you to make these arguments.

_{Common Mistakes to Avoid at an Arraignment}

• Missing the court date. This can lead to a bench warrant and forfeited bail.
• Talking about your case in court or in the hallway. Statements can be overheard or used against you.
• Pleading guilty without legal advice. Guilty and no contest pleas are hard to undo.
• Ignoring release conditions. Violating them can lead to arrest and tougher bail terms.
• Waiting to hire a lawyer. The earlier an attorney is involved, the more options you usually have.

_{Why You Should Have a Defense Attorney at Your Arraignment?}

The arraignment may be brief, but it is the first chance to protect your rights and your freedom. A local criminal defense attorney familiar with the Van Nuys Courthouse can:

• Advise you on the right plea
• Argue for release or reduced bail
• Challenge unreasonable conditions or protective orders
• Begin collecting evidence and reviewing the prosecution's case
• Talk with the prosecutor about options for reducing or dismissing charges, diversion, or alternative sentencing

Familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures helps your attorney make informed decisions from day one.

_{Facing Charges in Van Nuys? Talk to Us Before Your Arraignment}

That next arraignment is just around the corner. Don't face it alone. The attorneys at Van Nuys Crime handle every case at the Van Nuys Courthouse and all other courthouses throughout the San Fernando Valley, and whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a felony, we will go over all of the charges, assert your rights at the earliest possible hearing, and begin mounting your defense immediately.

For a free legal consultation, call (818) 641-5556.

_{Frequently Asked Questions}