What Happens at an Arraignment? A Step-by-Step Guide
By Sullivan Rice
Being charged with a crime can feel like your world is spinning. One of the first—and most important—steps in the legal process is your arraignment. But what actually happens at an arraignment in Minnesota?
At Jack Rice Defense, we believe in demystifying the process so you know what to expect and how to protect yourself. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to your arraignment.
What Is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is your first appearance in court after being charged with a crime. This is not a trial—it’s a formal proceeding where the charges are read, and you enter a plea. It's also when bail may be discussed.
Step 1: You’re Brought Before a Judge
Whether you're in custody or released, you must appear before a judge for your arraignment. In most Minnesota counties, this typically happens within 48 hours of your arrest (excluding weekends and holidays) if you’re in custody.
Step 2: You’re Informed of the Charges
The judge or court clerk will formally read the charges against you. These could be misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, or felonies, depending on the alleged offense.
You’ll be told:
The nature of the charges
The maximum penalties you’re facing
Your constitutional rights (to an attorney, to remain silent, to a trial, etc.)
Step 3: Entering a Plea
You’ll be asked to enter a plea to the charges. This applies to misdemeanors. For gross misdemeanors and felonies, this happens at a later stage. The standard options for misdemeanors are:
Not Guilty – This means you deny the charges and want to proceed to trial or work toward another resolution.
Guilty – This admits the charges and moves directly to sentencing.
Possible alternatives – You don’t admit guilt, but accept the conviction. This plea is rare and must be accepted by the court. These are called Alford or Norgaard pleas.
Jack’s Advice: Never plead guilty at an arraignment without speaking to an experienced defense attorney first. You may have defenses, options, or leverage you don’t know about yet.
Step 4: Bail or Conditions of Release
If you haven’t already been released, the judge may set:
Bail – An amount of money to secure your release.
Conditional Release – You’re released without bail but must follow certain conditions (e.g., no contact with victims, no drugs/alcohol, travel restrictions).
No Release – In more serious cases, you may be held in custody until trial.
Your attorney can advocate for a lower bail or argue for your release without posting money.
Step 5: Scheduling Future Dates
Finally, the court will schedule your next appearance—usually a pretrial hearing or omnibus hearing, depending on the court and case type.
What You Should Do Before Your Arraignment
✅ Hire a Defense Attorney – This is the most important thing you can do. Your lawyer can protect your rights, negotiate with the prosecution, and help you avoid mistakes.
✅ Show Up on Time – Being late or missing court can result in a warrant for your arrest.
✅ Stay Calm & Respectful – First impressions matter. Dress appropriately, speak respectfully, and don’t interrupt the judge.
✅ Say Little, Listen More – Let your attorney speak on your behalf. Anything you say can be used against you.
Why Jack Rice Defense?
At Jack Rice Defense, we guide our clients through every stage of the criminal process—from arraignment to resolution. Jack brings decades of experience, including as a former prosecutor and CIA officer, and uses that knowledge to protect your rights and future.
If you’re facing charges in Minnesota, don’t go into court alone. We’re here to stand with you—and fight for you—every step of the way.
