![]() In the federal system, it’s important to understand that most cases do not end up in a jury trial where citizens listen to evidence and decide if someone is guilty or innocent. ![]() This is because most of the plea colloquy is the same and, if the judge were to handle each defendant’s re-arraignment separately, it would tie up hours of the courts valuable time. To change their plea, another hearing will be held, which is often referred to as a “re-arraignment.”Īt re-arraignments, the judge will often take guilty pleas from numerous defendants at the same time. Why are federal pleas sometimes called re-arraignments?Īfter federal defendants review evidence, consult with attorneys, and negotiate with the government, they often decide to change their “not guilty” plea to “guilty” as part of a plea bargain to take advantage of any benefits offered by the government. If you do not have an attorney, the arraignment will be scheduled later but still very quickly after your arrest.ĭuring the arraignment, the judge will read the criminal complaint or indictment and ask you to enter a plea of “guilty” or “not guilty.” During a federal plea proceeding, the judge is required to make sure you:Ģ) understands the rights you are giving up ĭuring the initial arraignment, most defendants enter a plea of “not guilty.” A “not guilty” plea is standard at this stage in the process, as the defendant needs time to receive and review the governments evidence and consult with their attorney at length before making a final decision on how to proceed or plead. If you already have an attorney at the initial appearance, it’s possible that you could also be arraigned at that time and asked to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. ![]() Shortly after you are arrested for a federal offense, you will have an initial appearance before a magistrate who will inform you of your charges and advise you or your rights – including your right to an attorney, right to a preliminary and detention hearing and right to remain silent. ![]()
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