What happens at a criminal arraignment in Staten Island
An arraignment is the first court appearance after an arrest. In Staten Island, which is Richmond County, the arraignment typically takes place within 24 hours of your arrest at the NYC Criminal Court located at 18 Richmond Terrace. During this proceeding, the judge informs you of the charges, asks for your plea, and addresses bail or release conditions. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney with you at arraignment matters because decisions made at this stage—such as whether you are released or held—can affect the rest of your case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team represent individuals at arraignments in Staten Island, advocating for favorable pretrial release and protecting your rights from the very first hearing. To discuss representation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What to Expect at Your Arraignment in Richmond County
An arraignment in Richmond County follows the same basic structure as other New York City criminal courts but with procedures specific to Staten Island. After arrest, you are held for processing and must be brought before a judge without unnecessary delay. At the hearing, the judge reads the charges and gives you a copy of the complaint. You are asked to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or, with the court’s permission, no contest. If you plead not guilty, the court schedules the next court date.
Bail is a central issue at arraignment. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies. Many defendants are released on their own recognizance or with non‑monetary conditions. For serious offenses, such as certain violent felonies, bail may still be set. The judge considers several factors, including the nature of the charges, your ties to the community, and any prior failures to appear. Legal representation at this stage helps present your strong case for release and ensures that you understand any conditions imposed by the court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a criminal arraignment?
A criminal arraignment is the first court hearing after an arrest where the defendant is formally notified of the charges and asked to enter a plea. The judge also addresses issues of bail or release conditions and schedules the next court appearance. In Staten Island, arraignments for misdemeanors occur at the NYC Criminal Court, while felony arraignments take place at the Richmond County Supreme Court.
How soon after arrest does an arraignment happen in Staten Island?
An arraignment in Richmond County typically takes place within 24 hours of the arrest. New York law requires that you be presented before a judge without unnecessary delay. If you are arrested and held, contact an attorney immediately so that counsel can appear with you at this critical first hearing.
What happens if I plead guilty at the arraignment?
Pleading guilty at arraignment means you admit to the charges and the case proceeds to sentencing. In some situations, a guilty plea may be part of a negotiated resolution, but without legal advice, you could face consequences you did not anticipate. It is generally advisable to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer before entering a plea.
What happens if I plead not guilty?
If you plead not guilty, the court schedules future dates for motions, hearings, or trial. Your attorney will receive evidence from the prosecution, file pretrial motions, and work to build your defense. In Richmond County, misdemeanor cases move to the Criminal Court, while felony cases continue in the Supreme Court.
Do I need a lawyer at the arraignment?
Yes, you have the right to have a lawyer represent you at your arraignment. A criminal defense attorney can argue for your release, negotiate with the prosecutor, and help protect your rights from the earliest stage. The court will appoint a public defender only if you qualify financially, and many people choose to hire their own experienced counsel.
What is an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD)?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal is a disposition available in New York for certain first-offense cases, where the charges are adjourned for a period of six to 12 months and then automatically dismissed if you stay out of trouble. An ACD avoids a conviction altogether. Your attorney can assess whether your case may qualify and discuss this option with the court or prosecutor at the arraignment.
How does bail work after the 2020 bail reform in New York?
Under New York’s bail reform, cash bail is largely eliminated for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies. Many people are released on their own recognizance or with conditions, such as reporting to a pretrial services agency. Cash bail remains available for certain violent felonies and specified offenses. An attorney can argue for release and present facts supporting your ties to the community.
Can I be released without bail?
Yes, many defendants are released without any monetary bail after their Staten Island arraignment. Release on reconnaissance means you promise to return to court without posting money. The judge may also impose non‑monetary conditions such as supervised release or travel restrictions. Your lawyer can present arguments for the least restrictive release terms.
What are the possible outcomes of an arraignment?
After the arraignment, you will either be released (with or without conditions) or, in limited cases, held with bail set. The case then moves forward with scheduled court dates. In some instances, the court may address an immediate resolution, such as an ACD for eligible offenses. Every outcome depends on the charges, your background, and the strength of the legal arguments made on your behalf.
What should I do to prepare for my arraignment?
Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest. Gather any documents related to the arrest, such as bail receipt or paperwork from the police, and be ready to provide information about your employment, family, and community ties that could support a release argument. Dress appropriately for court and follow your attorney’s guidance.
Where does the arraignment take place?
Arraignments in Staten Island occur at the Richmond County Criminal Court located at 18 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301. Felony arraignments are also held at this courthouse. Richmond County Supreme Court hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM, and counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.
What if I miss my arraignment?
If you fail to appear at your arraignment, the judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. It is critical to contact your lawyer immediately if you realize you will miss or have missed a court date. A warrant can result in additional charges and may negatively affect future bail decisions.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with extensive experience defending individuals in criminal matters across New York, Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and New Jersey. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every client’s representation. The firm represents people at arraignments, pretrial hearings, and trials in Richmond County, working to protect rights and pursue favorable outcomes. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747. Results may vary.
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