WHAT HAPPENS AT A CRIMINAL ARRAIGNMENT IN MISSOURI?

criminal arraignment

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Missouri, your first court appearance will likely be the arraignment. For many people, this is a confusing and stressful moment. You may be asking:

“What happens at a criminal arraignment?”

“Do I need a lawyer for it?”

“Will I go to jail?”

At KC Defense Counsel, our experienced Missouri criminal defense lawyers near you help clients throughout Kansas City navigate the criminal justice system from day one. Below, we break down what to expect at a Missouri arraignment—and why it’s important to have legal representation before you appear in court.

WHAT IS AN ARRAIGNMENT?

An arraignment is the first formal court proceeding after you’re charged with a crime. It’s where the court:

  • Reads the charges against you
  • Informs you of your rights
  • Asks how you wish to plead (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
  • Sets bond conditions or addresses your release
  • Schedules your next court date

It is not a trial, and no evidence is presented or argued at this stage. But it sets the tone—and the timeline—for everything that comes next.

WHEN DOES AN ARRAIGNMENT HAPPEN IN MISSOURI?

The arraignment usually happens:

  • Within a few days of your arrest if you’re in custody
  • Within 2–4 weeks if you’ve received a criminal summons (for example, mailed notice of a charge)
  • It takes place in the court of jurisdiction—which could be municipal, state, or circuit court—depending on the level of offense.

SHOULD I GET A LAWYER FOR AN ARRAIGNMENT IN MISSOURI?

Yes. While it may seem like a procedural formality, the arraignment can directly impact:

  • Your bond or release conditions
  • Your first impression with the court and prosecution
  • Your ability to challenge improper charges
  • Your chance to negotiate early resolutions

At KC Defense Counsel, we attend arraignments with our clients to ensure their rights are protected from the very beginning. We often argue for lower bond, fight unnecessary restrictions, and begin building leverage for your defense.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I PLEAD NOT GUILTY?

Most people plead not guilty at arraignment—even if they later plan to resolve the case through a plea deal. A not guilty plea gives your attorney time to:

  • Review the evidence (called discovery)
  • Investigate the facts
  • File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case
  • Negotiate with the prosecutor
  • Prepare for trial if necessary

You can always change your plea later with legal guidance.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T SHOW UP FOR ARRAIGNMENT?

Failing to appear at your arraignment can lead to:

  • A bench warrant for your arrest
  • Bond forfeiture
  • Additional criminal charges
  • Immediate license suspension in some cases

Always attend your court date, or let your attorney appear for you, if permitted.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO AN ARRAIGNMENT?

  • Your summons or court paperwork
  • Photo ID
  • Proof of insurance (for traffic-related cases)
  • Any relevant documents from law enforcement

And most importantly, bring an experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney

CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL FOR A FREE CASE EVALUATION

Whether you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, don’t go into court alone. Contact KC Defense Counsel today for a free, confidential consultation. Our affordable and skilled Missouri defense attorneys near me will represent you at your arraignment, fight for fair treatment, and start building your defense immediately.

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