What happens at a criminal arraignment in New Kent County
When you are charged with a crime in New Kent County, your first court appearance is usually an arraignment. This is the formal proceeding where a judge advises you of the charges and your rights, and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. In New Kent County, arraignments for misdemeanors take place in the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. Felony cases proceed to the New Kent County Circuit Court for arraignment after a preliminary hearing in the lower court. Having an experienced defense lawyer at this early stage can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients at arraignments throughout New Kent County and works to protect your interests from the very first hearing. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What happens at a New Kent County arraignment
At the arraignment, the judge will confirm your identity, read the charges against you, and explain the maximum penalties you face under Virginia law. If you do not have an attorney, the court will inform you of your right to court-appointed counsel if you qualify financially. In New Kent County General District Court, the court-appointed attorney fee is set by the court for a misdemeanor and is a higher amount for a felony. You will then be asked to enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, the judge will set a date for trial. In misdemeanor cases, trial is typically scheduled within a few weeks; felony cases proceed to a preliminary hearing. The judge will also review your bail status. A magistrate initially sets bond after arrest, but at arraignment the judge can adjust bond conditions. For many first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County, personal recognizance—no payment—is common. For felonies, secured bond is more typical, and a bail bondsman may charge approximately 10% of the bond amount.
The arraignment is also the opportunity for your attorney to raise any issues about the charges, request discovery, and begin building your defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team, including attorneys who regularly appear in New Kent County courts, appear at arraignments ready to advocate for favorable bail terms and to start strategic planning for your case. They also ensure you understand each step and are prepared for the next hearing. Because the arraignment sets the course for the entire criminal matter, having experienced defense counsel present can avoid missteps that may affect the outcome of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a criminal arraignment in New Kent County, Virginia?
An arraignment is the initial court hearing where a defendant is formally advised of criminal charges and enters a plea. In New Kent County, misdemeanor arraignments are handled in the General District Court, while felony arraignments occur in Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing. The judge will inform you of your rights, review bail, and set future court dates. Having an attorney present at this stage is critical to protect your interests.
Do I need a lawyer at my arraignment in New Kent County?
Yes, having an experienced defense lawyer at your arraignment can help secure fair bail conditions and avoid pitfalls in the plea process. An attorney can argue for your release on personal recognizance, address any legal issues with the charges, and guide you on the appropriate plea. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Appears at New Kent County arraignments to advocate for clients from the very start.
What plea options are available at a New Kent County arraignment?
You may enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A not-guilty plea leads to a trial date; a guilty or no-contest plea may result in immediate sentencing or a later sentencing hearing. The consequences of each plea depend on the specific charge and your prior record, so consulting with counsel before entering any plea is strongly recommended.
Can the judge set bail at an arraignment in New Kent County?
Yes, the judge has the authority to set or adjust bail at arraignment. If a magistrate already set bail, the judge may modify the bond amount or conditions. For first-offense misdemeanors, release on personal recognizance is common. For felonies, a secured bond is more likely. Your attorney can present arguments for reduced bail.
What happens after arraignment in New Kent County?
If you plead not guilty, the court will schedule the next hearing—a trial date for misdemeanors or a preliminary hearing for felonies. The time between arraignment and the next hearing depends on the court’s calendar, but in General District Court, misdemeanor trials often occur within several weeks. Your attorney will use this period to investigate the case and prepare a defense.
Where is the New Kent County General District Court located?
The court is at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124; the phone number is (804) 966-9690. This court handles all misdemeanor arraignments and felony preliminary hearings. The New Kent County Circuit Court, which handles felony arraignments after the case is certified, is also in the same courthouse complex. Contact our firm for directions or for an attorney to meet you at court.
What is the difference between General District Court and Circuit Court arraignments in New Kent County?
General District Court arraigns misdemeanor defendants and conducts felony preliminary hearings; Circuit Court arraigns defendants on felony charges after the case is certified from the lower court. In Circuit Court, the arraignment is typically more formal and follows a grand jury indictment. The procedural rules and potential penalties differ, so representation tailored to the specific court is essential.
What should I bring to my arraignment in New Kent County?
Bring a valid photo ID, any court paperwork you received, and your attorney’s contact information. If you plan to request court-appointed counsel, bring documentation of your financial situation, such as pay stubs or proof of government assistance. Dress respectfully, as the judge observes your demeanor. Arrive early to locate the courtroom and meet with your lawyer.
Can I represent myself at an arraignment in New Kent County?
You have the right to represent yourself, but doing so is not recommended because an attorney understands the legal arguments and local court practices that can affect your case. Even at an early arraignment, decisions about bail and scheduling can have long-term consequences. A knowledgeable advocate can help you make informed choices from the start.
How quickly after arrest does arraignment happen in New Kent County?
Arraignment generally occurs within a few days to a week after arrest, depending on the court’s docket and the nature of the charges. If you are held in custody, the arraignment may be held sooner to address bail. Your attorney can confirm the specific date and time assigned by the court and explain what to expect at the hearing.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His Of Counsel team includes attorneys who regularly appear in New Kent County’s General District Court and Circuit Court on criminal matters. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm’s Richmond Location at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 serves clients throughout New Kent County and the surrounding region. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
Related pages: Our Virginia criminal defense practice | Criminal defense lawyer Henrico County | Criminal defense lawyer Chesterfield County | Criminal defense lawyer Hanover County
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