Court Hearings

Arraignment

Arraignment is your first court date.  It may also be referred to as your Advisement of Rights hearing.

• Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled court hearing to fill out paperwork.
• Dress appropriately for court.  Click here to see the Court's dress code.
• An intake officer will help you fill out your paperwork.
• Cases are not called in any particular order.
• Listen for your name to be called by the Sheriff’s Deputy.  You should not leave the courtroom area at any time, unless absolutely necessary.
• The judge will advise you of your charge(s) and review your paperwork.
• You will be given a second court date for your adjudication.

Adjudication

Adjudication is your trial.  An attorney will represent you.  At this point, you will plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead not guilty, evidence will be presented in the case and a judge will decide if you are guilty or not guilty.

Disposition

Disposition is your sentencing.  Dispositions vary from case to case, but they may include the following:

• Probation
• Detention time (Juvenile Detention Center, commitment to the Department of Juvenile Justice, Adult Detention Center if you are over 18)
• Fine(s)
• Restitution
• Loss/Suspension of License
• Community Service hours
• Completion of certain programs
• Individual or Family Counseling
• Essay
• Apology Letters
• Substance Abuse treatment