What is an arraignment?

The arraignment is generally your first appearance in court on the citation or charge. If you were summoned to court, you will appear in person at the court. If you were arrested, you will remain at the Kitsap County Jail and will see the Judge through the jail video system.

The Judge will inform you of the charge and explain it. Next it will be confirmed that you understand your constitutional rights as explained by the document you were given when you checked in with the Court Security Officer, and finally the maximum punishment and mandatory minimum punishment, if any, will be stated. Bail and conditions of release will be discussed and set by the court. For a person charged with a non-violent offense with little to no criminal history, it is not uncommon to be released on personal recognizance ("PR") and other conditions such as a no-contact order or a requirement not to drink alcohol or use drugs. However, if the offense involves behavior that endangers others, bail and other more stringent conditions may be imposed as a condition of any release to the community.

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1. What should I wear and how should I act in court?
2. What is an arraignment?
3. What are my constitutional rights?
4. My car was impounded when I was arrested for a DUI - where is it?
5. Should I talk to a lawyer before entering a plea?
6. What if I am financially unable to hire a lawyer? How do I qualify for a public defender?
7. If I plead guilty what will happen?
8. What happens if I plead not guilty?
9. What happens if I am sentenced to jail?
10. What alternatives are there for serving a jail sentence?
11. What must I do if I can't pay my entire fine at sentencing?
12. What is the process for sealing records and vacating convictions?
13. I missed court and have a bench warrant. How do I quash the bench warrant?