Do I need an attorney for an arraignment
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Do I need an attorney for an arraignment
I was arrested last week for taking a set of wedding rings from a house while working for Direct TV. I took the rings and pawned them for 300.00. I am out on a 4000.00 unsecured bond 1st offense. I told the officer I took the rings and showed him the pink slip I had gotten from the pawn shop. Do I need an attorney for my arraignment on Monday, March 6?
Asked on February 28, 2017 under Criminal Law, Virginia
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
An arraignment is where the judge basically tells you what you are officially charged with. You are not required to make admissions or bargain for anything at this hearing. The judge may ask you to 'enter a plea.' Until you visit with an attorney about the details of your case with an attorney, you are permitted to enter a plea of 'not guilty.' It will not offend the judge if you actually are guilty....the judge knows that you are preserving your right to enter the plea of not guilty and not give extra evidence against yourself.
Because the arraignment hearing is so limited and quick, you generally do not need an attorney to be present at this hearing. However, you should start the process of finding an attorney to at least review the facts of your case with.
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