New York Criminal Arraignment
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Being arrested is a frightening experience. A New York Criminal Arraignment Lawyer can tell you you that if you have been taken into custody or received a desk appearance ticket (DAT), your next step will be to attend your Arraignment hearing. The time frame for this is generally 24 hours from the time of your arrest. This time is very important, and it is important to speak with legal counsel as soon as possible. The police or the district attorney may try to ask various questions about your case. It is important to remember that even the most innocent statement can hurt you down the road. Whether you have been arrested for a DWI, theft crime, sex crime or Domestic Violence, you will be required to attend this hearing. If you have been arrested or received a desk appearance ticket, it is important to speak to the legal team from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC for guidance and a free consultation.
Our team can impress upon you the importance of this hearing. Failure to attend your hearing can result in bench warrant being issued for your arrest. It is highly recommended that you speak to our team well in advance of your hearing, so that your lawyer can go over the facts of your case and be prepared.
Many people are under the impression that when they attend their hearing they will be able to discuss the charges against them or give the judge their side of the story. This is not the case, the purpose of this hearing is strictly to hear the charges against you, and for the judge to decide to release you from custody or not.
Keep in mind that when you are charged with an offense, the court presumes that you are innocent until proven guilty. When you enter your plea of “not guilty,” they will decide whether you should be released without bail (ROR) or if bail will be set. Bail is the amount of money that must be deposited to the court in order for you to be released. The court usually accepts this bail in two different forms either in cash or a bail bond. The judge has quite a bit of discretion here, which is why it is so important to have legal counsel involved. The judge will consider the nature of the offense and if you have a criminal record. They will also determine with you are considered a “flight risk,” and could leave the area before the completion of your case. Your ties to the community will be important, whether you have family in the area and whether or not you are employed. Your lawyer will be working to persuade the court to release you with our bail, or keep the bail amount to a minimum.
What is decided at your hearing can set the tone for what lie ahead with your case. Obtaining skilled legal representation will ensure that you are taking all steps necessary to handle the charges against you and ensure that your rights are protected. When you come in, we will provide you with a free consultation and valuable legal guidance. We have offices in Westchester County, and in both Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island. In New York, we have locations in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island and Queens. Call us today to schedule your free consultation at 800.696.9529.