What Happens at an Arizona Arraignment?
If you or someone you love has been arrested as a result of suspected criminal activity, you may wonder what the next step involves. Arizona criminal cases are prosecuted according to procedural rules set forth by Arizona law.
Arizona law requires prosecutors to file official charging documents that inform defendants about the criminal acts they are accused of having committed.
What is an Arraignment?
The hearing at which the accused person formally hears the charges is known as an “arraignment.” Generally, at an arraignment, the court verifies the person’s identity, informs him or her of the charges and possible sentence, informs the person of his or her constitutional rights, and allows the person to enter a plea.
At an arraignment, most people enter a plea of “not guilty.” A not-guilty plea at arraignment denies guilt and requires the state to prove every element of the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt. It also gives you time to investigate the case, study the evidence against you, and prepare your defense.
Finally, entering a not-guilty plea at arraignment gives you time to find an experienced Arizona criminal defense attorney. In some situations, the court will appoint an attorney for you if you cannot afford one. In others, you will need to seek an attorney’s help on your own. At Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., our experienced Arizona criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome in every case we handle, while also fully protecting each client’s legal rights. For a confidential consultation, call us today at (480) 467-3434.
About the Author
Zachary Mushkatel is a founding attorney of Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., who has practiced law in Arizona since 2004. He also practices before the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. A graduate of the University of Arizona and the University of Minnesota Law School, he started his career as a public defender and entered private practice in criminal defense. In 2008, Zachary co-founded a firm dedicated to civil law in addition to criminal defense, and he has since expanded his practice to personal injury, estate planning and litigation, guardianships, conservatorships, probate, corporate litigation, real estate, and various civil matters. He serves on the board and faculty of the Arizona College of Trial Advocacy, and he is a past president and current member of the West Maricopa County Bar Association.
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