Being arrested or charged with a crime can be one of the most intimidating experiences of your life. In California, the first official step in the criminal justice process after arrest is the arraignment. This is where you appear before a judge, hear the charges against you, and enter a plea. If you’re facing an arraignment in San Mateo County or at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City, knowing what to expect can ease your anxiety and help you make smart decisions.
At the Law Offices of M. Gabriela Guraiib, we represent individuals across San Mateo County who are navigating the criminal system for the first time, as well as those who need a seasoned advocate to step in during a stressful and uncertain process. Below, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens at an arraignment and how to prepare so that you’re positioned for the best possible outcome.
What Is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is a formal court proceeding where the judge reads the charges against you and asks you how you want to plead. It marks the beginning of the formal criminal court process. Whether you’ve been arrested for DUI, assault, theft, or any other offense, the arraignment is your first opportunity to appear in court and assert your rights.
At arraignment, you will:
- Be informed of the charges filed against you
- Learn about your constitutional rights (such as the right to an attorney and the right to remain silent)
- Enter a plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest
- Have bail set or adjusted, or possibly be released on your own recognizance (OR)
- Be assigned a future court date for the next stage in your case
Although the arraignment is typically brief, its consequences can shape the direction of your case. That’s why it’s essential to understand the process and be represented by an experienced attorney if possible.
Where Arraignments Happen in San Mateo County
Most criminal arraignments in San Mateo County take place at the Hall of Justice, located at 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA. This is the main courthouse for felony and misdemeanor matters. The courthouse has multiple departments (courtrooms), and the one handling your arraignment will be listed on your citation, bail notice, or court paperwork.
Arraignment calendars usually begin in the morning, and it’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early. Security screening is required to enter the building, and court departments may have different rules about check-in procedures. Once inside, defendants should go directly to the department listed on their notice or follow posted instructions in the lobby.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Arraignment
Here’s what a typical arraignment day looks like at the Redwood City courthouse:
Arrival and Check-In
You’ll pass through security, then proceed to your assigned courtroom. If you’re represented by a private attorney, they may handle check-in for you. If you’re unrepresented, court staff may call your name or assign you to a public defender.
Courtroom Conduct
Dress respectfully; think business casual. Turn off your phone and speak only when addressed. Avoid disruptive behavior, as the judge controls the courtroom and can order custody or contempt sanctions.
Order of Cases
Arraignment calendars can involve dozens of cases, so expect to wait. Those in custody are usually heard first, followed by out-of-custody defendants. If you have an attorney, your case may be called earlier.
What the Judge Will Say
The judge will read the charges and ask whether you understand them. They’ll inform you of your rights and ask for a plea. They may also decide whether you’re eligible for release or must remain in custody pending your next court date.
Understanding the Charges and Police Reports
At arraignment, the prosecutor (usually from the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office) files a complaint listing the specific charges. This document may include multiple counts, sentence enhancements, or alternative theories of the case.
In most cases, your attorney will receive a copy of the complaint and the initial police report. This is called “discovery.” If you don’t have an attorney yet, you may not receive full discovery until one is appointed or retained. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a lawyer before arraignment if possible.
If the charges differ from what the arresting officer told you, don’t panic. The DA has discretion to file different or additional charges based on the investigation.
Entering a Plea
You have three plea options:
- Not Guilty: You dispute the charges and want to contest the case. Most people plead not guilty at arraignment.
- Guilty: You admit to the crime and waive your right to trial. This is rare at arraignment unless a negotiated plea deal is ready.
- No Contest (Nolo Contendere): You don’t admit guilt but agree not to contest the charges. Similar to a guilty plea, it is often used in plea agreements.
Entering a not guilty plea allows time to review evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and prepare a defense. Even if you think you want to plead guilty, you should not do so at arraignment without speaking to a lawyer.
Bail, Release, and OR Decisions
After a plea is entered, the judge decides whether you will be released or remain in custody. Factors include:
- Nature and seriousness of the charges
- Criminal history
- Risk of flight
- Ties to the community
- Safety of the public
The judge can:
- Release you on your own recognizance (OR)
- Set bail based on the county’s bail schedule
- Modify bail if appropriate
- Place you on supervised release with conditions
If you’ve already posted bail after arrest, you may remain out. If not, your lawyer can argue for a reduction or for OR release, especially if you have no prior record and strong community ties.
What Happens After the Arraignment
Once the arraignment ends, the court sets your next appearance. This could be:
- Pretrial conference (misdemeanors)
- Settlement conference or preliminary hearing (felonies)
- Trial-setting conference
These hearings are where plea negotiations, motion filings, and case strategy begin to unfold. Speedy trial deadlines also begin running: 30 to 60 days for misdemeanors, 10 to 60 days for felonies, depending on custody status.
It’s vital to stay in close contact with your attorney and to appear at all future court dates. Missing court can result in a bench warrant and additional charges.
How to Prepare for Your Arraignment
Preparation is key to protecting your rights and making a strong first impression in court. While arraignments are typically brief, the decisions made during this hearing can significantly affect your life and the course of your case. Taking the time to prepare can reduce anxiety and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Meet With a Lawyer in Advance: If possible, hire or consult with an attorney before your arraignment. They can attend with you, protect your rights, and guide you through the process.
- Gather Your Documents: Bring any court notices, citations, bail receipts, or personal identification. If you were bailed out or cited and released, this paperwork is critical.
- Dress and Act Appropriately: Courts expect respectful dress and demeanor. Avoid casual attire, chewing gum, or using your phone in the courtroom.
- Be Ready to Wait: The arraignment calendar can take hours, especially if many defendants are scheduled. Plan for most of the morning or afternoon.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are also several common mistakes you should avoid while preparing for an arraignment, including:
- Skipping your arraignment. Even if you’re unsure about the process, missing court will result in a bench warrant.
- Speaking without legal advice. You are not required to explain yourself to the judge. Let your lawyer speak for you.
- Accepting a plea without reviewing the evidence. Don’t plead guilty or no contest without knowing what the prosecution has.
- Relying on a public defender without exploring other options. While public defenders are hardworking, they often carry heavy caseloads and may not have the bandwidth for complex cases.
- Posting bail without understanding the conditions. Sometimes, you may be eligible for OR release or supervised release without paying bail. Let a lawyer advocate for you.
How the Law Offices of M. Gabriela Guraiib Can Help
Facing criminal charges is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At the Law Offices of M. Gabriela Guraiib, we have experience defending clients at every stage of the criminal process, from arraignment to trial.
We provide:
- Clear, compassionate guidance before and during your arraignment
- Courtroom advocacy tailored to your specific case and background
- Strategic defense planning from the outset
- A deep understanding of how San Mateo County courts and prosecutors operate
- Strong communication and personalized legal support throughout your case
We handle a wide range of misdemeanor and felony offenses, and we know how to protect your rights from day one.
FAQs About San Mateo Court Arraignments
Q: Do I have to appear in person for my arraignment in Redwood City?
Yes. Unless your attorney receives special permission to waive your appearance, you must appear in person. For certain misdemeanor cases, remote options may be available, but this varies.
Q: What if I can’t afford bail? Can a lawyer help reduce it?
Yes. A criminal defense attorney can file a bail motion to request a reduction or argue for release on your own recognizance based on your circumstances.
Q: How long does an arraignment take?
The actual proceeding may last only a few minutes, but you may wait hours for your case to be called. Plan to be at the courthouse for most of the day.
Q: Will I be taken into custody at my arraignment?
It depends. If you are out of custody and the judge believes you pose a flight risk or danger, you could be remanded. An attorney can argue against this outcome.
Q: Can I change my plea later if I plead not guilty?
Yes. A not guilty plea preserves your rights. You can negotiate or change your plea later after reviewing the evidence and discussing your options with a lawyer.
Get the Legal Support You Need
The arraignment may be the first court date, but it can shape everything that follows. Knowing what to expect, how to prepare, and how to protect your rights is critical.If you or a loved one is facing arraignment in San Mateo County, don’t go it alone. Contact the Law Offices of M. Gabriela Guraiib for skilled, compassionate, and aggressive legal representation. We’re here to guide you through the criminal case process in California and fight for the best possible result.
