What is an arraignment hearing?

Posted by Stone River Criminal Defense Team

Last Updated: January 14, 2025

In a misdemeanor criminal case, the arraignment hearing is the first court hearing held. The judge will read the formal charges and ask the defendant to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The judge may also ask the defendant if an attorney has been hired, if a public defender is being requested, or […]
attorney meeting with client at desk

In a misdemeanor criminal case, the arraignment hearing is the first court hearing held. The judge will read the formal charges and ask the defendant to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The judge may also ask the defendant if an attorney has been hired, if a public defender is being requested, or if the defendant intends to represent himself.

Originally Published: November 20, 2023

How can we help you?

Call us at 801-448-7451, or use this contact form.

    Related Articles

    Aggravated Murder in Utah: What the Robinson Case Reveals About Utah State Law
    Utah prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University....
    September 16, 2025
    Belnap v. Howard, 2019 UT 9
    Only when the court finds ambiguity in a statute’s plain language, should the court look to legislative history and policy considerations in...
    September 16, 2025
    You’re Always Being Watched. Utah’s Privacy Laws Aren’t Keeping Up.
    In Utah, someone is always watching. It might be your neighbor's doorbell camera. A traffic sensor. A police drone. Or even your own phone, quietly...
    September 15, 2025

    Ready to explore our other articles?