What Are My Rights During My Texas Arraignment Hearing?

When facing criminal charges, one of the most important stages of the legal process is the arraignment. This is where you are formally charged and given the opportunity to enter a plea. As a defendant, you need to understand your rights during this critical phase. Here’s what to know.

The Right to be Informed

The first and fundamental right you have during an arraignment is the right to be informed of the charges against you. The prosecution is obligated to clearly state the charges and allegations being brought against you. This is a crucial right that ensures you have a clear understanding of the case you are facing.

THE RIGHT TO LEGAL REPRESENTATION

During the arraignment, you have the right to be represented by an attorney. If you don’t have the money for one, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you. It’s imperative that you exercise this right to ensure you are properly advised and defended throughout the legal process.

The Right to Reasonable Bail

The right to reasonable bail is another critical aspect of your arraignment rights. Bail allows you to be released from custody while awaiting trial, on the condition that you comply with the court’s requirements. The court will take into consideration various factors, including the severity of the charges, your criminal record, and the likelihood of you appearing for future court proceedings.

Can I Move The Arraignment To A Different Date?

In some cases, it may be necessary to move your arraignment to a different date than what was originally scheduled. There are several reasons why you might consider rescheduling your arraignment:

• You need more time to find legal representation to ensure a fair defense.
• You need time to gather important documentation or evidence to support your case.
• You have a scheduling conflict due to work, medical appointments, or other urgent matters.

Valid reasons for requesting a rescheduling include the need for additional time to secure legal representation or gather essential documents.
The decision to grant a continuance is at the discretion of the judge, who will consider the reason for the request and any opposing arguments by the prosecution.

Contact A Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Now

If you were arrested for a crime and your arraignment is coming up, you need a qualified lawyer who can come and advocate for you. Contact us today by calling 281.570.6400.