Inside an Arraignment: What Really Happens and Why It’s Routine

The Nerves Are Real

Picture this: you’re standing in Superior Court downtown. The bailiff calls your name, your heart is pounding, and the only question racing through your mind is, “Am I going to jail today?”

Take a breath. In Arizona, arraignments are far less dramatic than TV makes them seem. Think of them like airline boarding — it can’t take off until everyone’s scanned in and accounted for. Boring? Usually. Essential? Always.

This post walks you through every step of an arraignment, clears up common myths, and shares real client stories that prove why staying calm saves you headaches later.

Why We Have Arraignments

The concept dates back to 1215, when the Magna Carta guaranteed no one could be held without lawful judgment. Arizona carries that forward in Rule 14 of our Rules of Criminal Procedure.

The arraignment’s purpose is simple:

1. Tell you the charge.
2. Advise you of your rights.
3. Enter a plea.
4. Set the roadmap forward.

No evidence battles. No jury. It’s more like a DMV window than a Law & Order scene.

Deadlines and Timelines

Two clocks control arraignments in Arizona:

• 10 days if you’re in custody.
• 30 days if you’re released or received a summons.

Miss these deadlines and your release conditions can change — or in rare cases, the case itself can be dismissed. It’s the system’s way of guaranteeing your case officially gets on the calendar.

Step by Step: How an Arraignment Unfolds

Here’s how it actually plays out in court:

1. Case Called – The bailiff announces “State of Arizona versus [Name].” You step up with your lawyer.
2. Identity Check – Judge asks for your name and date of birth. Keep it short.
3. Reading the Charge – The indictment can be read aloud, though most lawyers waive it.
4. Rights Recap – The judge reminds you of presumption of innocence, right to counsel, right to remain silent, and right to a jury trial.
5. Attorney Status – Either your lawyer announces their appearance, or the court appoints counsel.
6. Plea Entry – Almost always “Not Guilty.” Judges will protect you from blurting “Guilty” in the heat of the moment.
7. Release Conditions – Judge sets bail, own-recognizance release, or monitoring. Sometimes quirky: one client was banned from Walmart but allowed to shop at Target.
8. Setting Next Dates – Court schedules the first conference and assigns a trial judge. Missing this is a serious mistake.
9. Paperwork & Exit – You sign a release order and get a printed sheet with your next court date. Treat it like a boarding pass: photo it, calendar it, don’t lose it.

That’s it. No surprise witnesses. No fireworks. Just the official start of your case.

Client Stories That Put It in Perspective

The First-Timer – Marisol, a 19-year-old U of A student, thought she was going to prison for shoplifting a $45 shirt. Her arraignment lasted four minutes. The judge entered not guilty, released her, and set her up for diversion. Later she told me, “The scariest part was the wait in line for security.”

The Veteran – Tony, a repeat DUI client, showed up in shorts and mirrored sunglasses. The judge scolded him for disrespect and nearly revoked his release. Same routine hearing, but attitude made all the difference.

Common Myths vs. Reality

Let’s bust a few misconceptions I hear every week:

• Myth: The judge decides guilt at arraignment. Reality: The judge only records your plea and sets dates. Guilt comes much later.
• Myth: I need to say a lot to defend myself. Reality: Just confirm your name and birthdate. Your lawyer handles the rest.
• Myth: Evidence gets argued here. Reality: Disclosure and evidence fights start after arraignment.
• Myth: If my lawyer shows up, I can skip it. Reality: In Arizona, you must appear unless excused in advance.
• Myth: Public defenders don’t fight for clients. Reality: They passed the same bar exam and fight hard with fewer resources. Show them respect.

Bail and Release Conditions

At arraignment, judges weigh risk: prior failures to appear, seriousness of the charge, community ties. Options include continuing your release, adding conditions like ankle monitors, setting bail, or remanding if you’ve violated terms.

Tip: Bring proof of employment or address. Showing stability can reduce bail.

Remote Arraignments After COVID

Many counties now hold arraignments by Zoom. The same rules apply:

• Stand when the judge enters, even virtually.
• Dress properly — no pajamas.
• Use headphones to cut background noise.
• Log in early; there’s a virtual waiting room.

Your Arraignment Checklist

Here’s what to do before you leave the courthouse (or log off Zoom):

1. Calendar your next hearing.
2. Ask for a copy of the complaint.
3. Connect with your lawyer immediately.
4. Stay off social media about your case.
5. Remember: arraignment is routine — the real chess match comes later.

Final Thoughts

If you’re facing an arraignment in Arizona, don’t panic. It’s formal, but it’s just step one. With the right strategy, you can control what happens next.

I’m Joel Chorny. Your rights matter. Protect them. Stay safe.