If you’ve been arrested or cited for a crime in the Inland Empire, your arraignment is likely the first time you will appear in court. For many people, it’s also their first interaction with the criminal justice system. The process can feel intimidating, confusing, and fast-moving — especially if you don’t know what to expect.

An arraignment is not a trial. It’s a procedural hearing designed to formally start your case. But what happens at this stage can shape everything that comes next.

What Is an Arraignment?

An arraignment is the court hearing where the judge formally advises you of the charges against you. This typically happens shortly after an arrest or after criminal charges have been filed.

In the Inland Empire — including Riverside and San Bernardino Counties — arraignments often move quickly. Judges handle large calendars, and cases can be called in rapid succession. That’s why understanding the basics ahead of time matters.

At the arraignment, the court will confirm your identity, review the charges, and address your rights. You may also be asked to enter a plea.

What the Judge Will Do at Your Arraignment

During an arraignment, the judge typically covers several key points:

First, the judge will read or summarize the charges filed against you. These charges come from the police report and the prosecutor’s review of the case.

Second, the judge will advise you of your constitutional rights. This includes your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and your right to a trial.

Third, the judge will address bail or release conditions. Depending on the case, you may already be out of custody, released on your own recognizance, or subject to bail or other conditions like no-contact orders.

Finally, the court will ask for your plea.

Entering a Plea at Arraignment

At the arraignment, you will usually be asked to enter one of three pleas:

• Not guilty
• Guilty
• No contest

In most cases, a not guilty plea is entered at this stage. This preserves your rights and allows your attorney time to review evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and prepare your defense.

Pleading guilty or no contest at an arraignment is rarely advisable without legal counsel. Once a plea is entered, it can have immediate and lasting consequences, including sentencing or immigration effects.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

Legally, you can appear at an arraignment without an attorney. Practically, that can be risky.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can speak on your behalf, enter the appropriate plea, argue for reduced bail or release conditions, and prevent you from saying something that could be used against you later.

In the Inland Empire, having local counsel matters. Each courthouse has its own procedures, tendencies, and expectations. What works in one county may not work in another.

What Happens After the Arraignment?

After the arraignment, your case moves into the pretrial phase. This may include:

• Discovery, where the prosecution shares evidence
• Pretrial conferences or hearings
• Motions filed by your attorney
• Negotiations with the prosecutor

The arraignment sets the timeline for your case. Court dates are scheduled, deadlines begin, and your defense strategy starts taking shape.

While the arraignment may feel brief, it is the gateway to the rest of the criminal process.

Why the Arraignment Matters More Than It Seems

Many people assume the arraignment is just a formality. In reality, mistakes made here can follow you throughout the case.

Statements made in court can be recorded. Bail conditions can affect your daily life. Missed appearances can lead to warrants. And rushed decisions can limit future options.

The arraignment is your first opportunity to protect yourself — or your first opportunity to unintentionally hurt your case.

Moving Forward

If you are facing an arraignment in the Inland Empire, preparation matters. Knowing what will happen, understanding your rights, and having legal representation can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds.

The criminal process can move quickly, but the consequences can last a lifetime. Taking the arraignment seriously is one of the most important steps you can take.
If you have an upcoming arraignment in Riverside or San Bernardino County and have questions about your case, speaking with a criminal defense attorney early can help you make informed decisions from the very start. Call Inland Empire Criminal Defense today at (909) 939-7126 for your free consultation.