The Arraignment Process in Hillsborough County, Tampa Florida
The following video and provided transcription covers the Arraignment Process in Hillsborough County, Tampa Florida:
After a person has been arrested and has had their First Appearance hearing (usually the next morning in Hillsborough County), the next court appearance is called the Arraignment.
At the Arraignment, the judge will ask whether or not charges have been filed. The State Attorney will respond, “yes they’re filed / no they are not”.
In between the First Appearance and the Arraignment is another opportunity where a criminal defense lawyer can help you. A criminal defense lawyer will be able to speak to the prosecutor and persuade them not to file charges or file less serious charges, or fewer charges.
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Also at the Arraignment, the judge will ask “have you retained a lawyer, sir or mam – or do you want us to appoint a public defender?”
In most cases, the person being charged does not have to appear at his or her Arraignment if they have hired a criminal defense lawyer.
It’s important to remember the earlier you retain a defense attorney, the greater likelihood of resolving the case in your favor.
Our Criminal Defense Lawyers are ready to provide you with a detailed consultation for FREE!
At the Arraignment, you will find out what the charges that are being brought against you are, and whether or not the charges have been or will be filed. You will also find out if the prosecutor is seeking a certain type of punishment or sentence.
The next hearing after the Arraignment is called the Disposition in Hillsborough County.