Definition of Arraignment in Traffic Court

During the arraignment, the accused with plead guilty or not guilty.

People go to court every day on various charges. The most common is traffic court, where people who have received moving violations are charged. The arraignment is a pivotal step in the traffic court process.

Definition

The arraignment is your first appearance in court. During this date, you either plead guilty or not guilty. By pleading guilty, you waive your right to contest the ticket. By pleading not guilty, you are asking the prosecutor to prove to the judge that you committed the crime you are accused of.

Time Frame

Because the arraignment is the first appearance, it is usually a few weeks to a month after the date the ticket is issued. The date is typically written on the ticket. During arraignment, you are read your rights. Neither the police nor the prosecutor is present.

Considerations

If you plead guilty, you face a penalty. Depending on the violation, it could be as minimal as a small fine or as severe as jail time. If you plead not guilty, a court trial is set. During the trial, the officer who issued the citation will be present, and you plead your case in front of a judge.

References

• Superior Court of California: Overview of Traffic Services
• Traffic Ticket Secrets: Traffic Court 101