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What Happens During The First Court Appearance?

During the preliminary arraignment, which is your first court appearance, the judge will state the charges against you, determine your eligibility for bail, and schedule your next court appearance. While this appearance isn’t a trial, what happens during this stage can significantly impact your case. That’s why working with a reputable Lebanon, PA, criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest is important to safeguard your rights and build a solid defense.

What to Expect During Your Preliminary Arraignment in Lebanon, PA

State law requires that you face a judge after your arrest without unnecessary holdups, usually within 48 hours. The main goal of the initial court appearance is not to establish innocence or guilt but to officially notify you of your constitutional rights and the charges against you.

The judge must also determine if you are eligible for bail. Depending on your specific charges, criminal history, community ties, and other factors the judge deems relevant, they may set bail, keep you in custody, or release you under certain conditions until the preliminary hearing. This hearing is your next court appearance and will be held within 21 days after your release or within 14 days if you were detained.

While you are not required to have a Lebanon, PA, criminal defense lawyer during the arraignment, it is strongly recommended. This is especially true in cases where the charges turn out to be more serious than expected, or the judge sets an impossibly high bail amount.

Why Having a Lebanon, PA, Criminal Defense Attorney From The Start is Essential to Your Case

During your first court appearance, your Lebanon, PA, criminal defense lawyer can argue for your release or a more reasonable bail. They will ensure you understand what’s happening every step of the way and start building your defense strategy promptly. Your attorney will examine the details of your arrest, investigate and verify the facts of your case, and prepare you for the next step, the preliminary hearing.

At this hearing, the judge must decide whether the prosecution has sufficient evidence to prove that you committed the crime you’re accused of. The prosecution will present their evidence and call witnesses to support their case. Meanwhile, your Lebanon, PA, criminal defense attorney will look for any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and challenge them.

If the prosecution lacks solid evidence, the judge may decide to reduce your charges or even dismiss your case. Otherwise, your case will move forward, and your lawyer will use the information they gathered during the hearing to better understand the prosecution’s strategy and consider negotiating for a plea agreement if it’s in your best interest.

Because the criminal justice system is inherently complex, a seemingly minor misstep, such as saying something wrong or missing a court date, can negatively affect the outcome of your case. With the guidance of our Lebanon, PA, criminal defense attorney at Feeman Law Offices, you increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome. For your confidential consultation, reach us online or call 717-273-1763.

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Feeman Law Offices specializes in bankruptcy, family law and criminal defense matters in Lebanon, PA. Get in touch with us today and let’s review your case together.

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