If you have an arraignment in Brazoria County, you are probably wondering what to expect and how you can be prepared. A Texas arraignment hearing can feel very intimidating, especially if you have never been to one before and don’t know what to expect. However, this process is quite straightforward and only requires a little preparation on your part.
If you want to know more about the criminal court process in Texas and how you can prepare for your arraignment date, you need to hire a Pearland criminal defense attorney. At The Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC, we are committed to providing legal representation for our clients in Texas, ensuring their rights are upheld.
What Is an Arraignment in Texas?
Before we dive into how you can prepare for your arraignment hearing, what happens at an arraignment, and where does it take place in the criminal justice process? An arraignment is your first court appearance in Texas, where you will appear before a judge to hear what the criminal charges against you are. Once you know the criminal charges, you will need to either plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
It is important that you understand the process of arraignment in Brazoria County, as this will dictate what the next steps are in the criminal justice process. This is because you will either be pleading guilty, not guilty, or no contest, which determines if you will face legal consequences, accept a plea deal, or move forward with a trial.
Many people get confused when it comes to arraignment vs trial, but these are two completely different parts of the criminal process. You will receive your arraignment appearance date on the citation you receive from a police officer. Whereas, a trial is the potential next step after an arraignment if you plead not guilty to the criminal charges against you.
Anyone attending an arraignment hearing should have a criminal defense attorney representing them to help them through this process. Your attorney can help ensure you understand the charges against you and what your rights are before you enter a plea. They will help you to determine whether or not you should accept a plea bargain or request a trial, depending on the details of your case.
Your Legal Rights at Arraignment
No matter where you are in the criminal court process in Texas, it is essential that you understand what your rights are. Your legal rights during an arraignment can help protect you from incriminating yourself or otherwise damaging your case.
Here are the three legal rights you have that provide you with protection during the criminal process in Texas.
Right to an Attorney
In Texas, you have the right to have legal representation if you are facing criminal charges. If you are unable to afford legal representation, the criminal court will appoint an attorney for you.
An attorney isn’t just there to plead your case, as they will also help you to understand what the charges are and the possible repercussions. They will advise you on the best course of action depending on the charges, your goals, and the evidence against you. If you decide to plead not guilty or request a trial, they will continue to provide good representation throughout the rest of your case.
Right to Remain Silent
When you go to your arraignment in Brazoria County, you also have the right to remain silent throughout the criminal process. This right is awarded to you under the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution, ensuring you do not incriminate yourself.
It is important that you exercise this right, especially if law enforcement or anyone in the court asks you any questions. You can refuse to answer any questions, avoiding the risk of having your answers used against you.
Right to be Informed of the Charges
At your arraignment, you also have the right to be informed of what the criminal charges against you are. The judge will clarify this, ensuring you have the information necessary to proceed with a plea of either guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
If there is any confusion around these charges, make sure you consult with your attorney before entering a plea.
What Happens After the Arraignment?
What happens after your arraignment will depend on how you plead. If you plead not guilty, the next step in the process will be to attend a pre-trial hearing.
If you plead guilty or no contest, you will be sentenced in accordance with the law.
For the Best Criminal Defense in Brazoria County, Contact The Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC
Attending your arraignment in Brazoria County can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding what this process entails and what your rights are, you can attend your arraignment with confidence. At The Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC, we have extensive experience handling criminal defense cases in Texas and can help you every step of the way. If you are looking for compassionate and experienced legal representation, contact us today at 832-230-0075 for a free consultation.
FAQ Section
Do I need a lawyer at my arraignment in Brazoria County?
Although it is not legally required to attend your arraignment with legal representation, it is strongly recommended to ensure your rights are upheld.
Can bail be set or changed at arraignment?
Yes, bail at arraignment in Texas is often set or adjusted by the judge depending on the details of the case.
What if I miss my arraignment date?
Your arraignment date is a legally required court appearance, so if you miss it, it is very likely that you will have a warrant out for your arrest.
