At arraignment, the court serves you and your attorney with a copy of the accusatory instruments (criminal charges) that have been filed against you. Your attorney will acknowledge receipt of this paperwork on the record (aloud) in court and enter a plea of “not guilty” to all charges against you on your behalf. The District Attorney (Prosecutor) may then let the court, your attorney and you know if they have any additional supporting depositions (sworn statements from the complainant/victim or witnesses) to serve, and/or if they are prepared to offer a plea offer to dispose of your case right then and there. More than likely, however, your case will be adjourned for a period of time to allow for the prosecution to serve discovery (evidence) that they are required to by law upon your attorney.
If the Legal Aid Attorney appearing with you at arraignment is able to determine that you qualify for our services beyond just the arraignment, he/she will give his/her business card with your next court date. Your attorney will contact you to schedule a client interview BEFORE your next court date. This initial interview is very important so you can discuss the facts of your case in a private and confidential way. Your attorney will not have time to speak with you in court. If you cannot make it into the office for a client interview, contact your attorney by telephone to discuss your case.