What happens at a criminal arraignment in Richmond County
An arraignment is the first court appearance after an arrest. For someone facing criminal charges in Richmond County, this hearing sets the tone for the entire case. During the arraignment, the judge informs the defendant of the charges, advises them of their rights, and asks for a plea. Bail or release conditions are also addressed. Many people are anxious and unsure of what to expect. Having an experienced defense lawyer present can make a significant difference. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Appear regularly in Richmond County courts and work to protect the rights of individuals at every stage. If you or a family member has an upcoming arraignment, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What a Criminal Arraignment Means in Richmond County
In Richmond County, a criminal arraignment is the procedural step that formally initiates a criminal case against an accused person. The defendant is brought before a judge—typically in the NYC Criminal Court for misdemeanors or the Supreme Court Criminal Term for felonies—and is given a copy of the accusatory instrument. The judge reads the charges and explains the possible penalties. The defendant is also told of the right to counsel; if the defendant cannot afford a lawyer, the court may assign one. In Richmond County, the arraignment must occur promptly after arrest, and the timing can influence the direction of the case. The judge also reviews whether the defendant qualifies for release without bail under New York’s 2020 bail reform.
Local practice in Richmond County often involves the issuance of a desk appearance ticket for lower-level offenses, which directs the accused to appear for arraignment on a future date instead of being held in custody. When bail is eligible, the judge considers the nature of the charges and the individual’s circumstances. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel routinely appear at these hearings and are familiar with the specific procedures and informal practices of the Richmond County courts.
The Arraignment Process Step by Step
At the arraignment, the judge addresses several matters in a specific order. First, the defendant is advised of the charges and the maximum penalties they carry. Next, the judge confirms that the defendant understands their rights—including the right to remain silent, the right to a trial, and the right to the assistance of counsel. The defendant then enters a plea of not guilty, guilty, or in some cases, is offered an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal.
After the plea, the judge turns to the question of pretrial release. Under the bail reform laws, many misdemeanor and non-violent felony defendants are released on their own recognizance with no monetary bail. For offenses where bail may still be set, the judge weighs factors such as ties to the community and prior court history. The defense attorney can present arguments and propose reasonable conditions—such as supervision or a treatment program—to support release. Finally, the judge schedules the next court date and, if the defendant is held, issues a bail order. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each arraignment with a focus on securing the most favorable release conditions possible while preserving the client’s legal rights from the very beginning.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Criminal Cases
Criminal defense requires more than just showing up at the arraignment. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine the accusatory instrument for legal deficiencies, determine whether law enforcement respected the defendant’s constitutional rights, and begin investigating the facts immediately. At the arraignment itself, they may argue for a reduction or dismissal of charges if the paperwork is defective. By addressing problems early, the defense can often limit the damage before the case moves to the next stage.
Throughout the pretrial period, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel continue to negotiate with the prosecutor’s office and prepare for any necessary hearings. Their experience in Richmond County courts gives them insight into how specific judges and prosecutors handle certain types of cases. While every situation is unique, the goal is always to work toward the favorable outcomes under the circumstances. The attorneys keep clients informed at each step and are available to answer questions about the process.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings a practical understanding of how the other side builds its case. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in New York, Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and New Jersey. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Working alongside Mr. Sris is a dedicated Of Counsel team, each with extensive experience in criminal law. These attorneys appear in courts throughout the areas the firm serves and contribute to case strategy and preparation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every matter, with a focus on thorough preparation and clear communication. The firm serves clients from its New York location and handles criminal cases in Richmond County and beyond. Staff members speak English, Spanish, and Tamil to better serve the diverse community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at a criminal arraignment in Richmond County?
The defendant appears before a judge in the NYC Criminal Court or Supreme Court Criminal Term, is informed of the charges and their rights, enters a plea, and has bail or release conditions determined. The judge also schedules the next court date. A defense attorney can argue for release and begin building the defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel routinely appear at these hearings. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer at the arraignment?
You have the right to be represented by counsel at every critical stage of a criminal case, including the arraignment. An experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights by arguing for your release, pointing out weaknesses in the charges, and setting the stage for a strong defense. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the court may assign one. To discuss representation before your arraignment, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal in Richmond County?
An ACD is a disposition available for certain first-offense cases in New York. The case is adjourned for a set period—typically between six and twelve months—during which the defendant must avoid new arrests and sometimes complete a program or community service. If the conditions are met, the charges are dismissed and the record can be sealed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can explain whether your case may qualify for an ACD. Reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.
How does bail work in Richmond County after the 2020 reform?
New York’s bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. Many defendants in Richmond County are released on their own recognizance without posting any money. For certain violent felonies and qualifying offenses, a judge may still set bail. A defense lawyer can present arguments for release on recognizance or for minimal conditions and ensure the court follows the law. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I bring to the arraignment?
You should bring any documents related to your case, such as the desk appearance ticket or notice to appear. Identification is usually required. It is also helpful to have contact information for your employer, family members, and character references, as they may be relevant if the judge considers release conditions. If you have retained a lawyer, coordinate with them in advance. To discuss how to prepare, call (888) 437-7747.
What happens after the arraignment?
After the arraignment, the case moves to the pretrial phase. The defense attorney receives discovery from the prosecutor, files motions, and may negotiate with the prosecution. Your next court date might be for a conference, a hearing, or potentially a trial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel will keep you informed of your court dates and explain what to expect as the matter progresses. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Related Criminal Defense Pages
New York County (Manhattan) Criminal Lawyer |
Kings County (Brooklyn) Criminal Lawyer |
Queens County (Queens) Criminal Lawyer |
Nassau County (Long Island) Criminal Lawyer |
Suffolk County (Long Island) Criminal Lawyer
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder
Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York
Practicing since 1997
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