A suspect has the right to be arraigned without unnecessary delay, usually within two court days, after being arrested. He or she appears before a judge who informs the suspect the official charges, constitutional rights, and applicable penalties. At the arraignment, an attorney is appointed in the event of financial hardship, and bail can be raised or lowered. A suspect may also ask to be released on personal recognizance at this time, even if bail was previously set.
If charged with a misdemeanor, a suspect pleads guilty or not guilty at the arraignment. Or, if the court approves, a suspect can plead nolo contendere, meaning the charges will not be contested. Legally, this is the same as a guilty plea, but it cannot be used against the suspect in a non-criminal case.
If misdemeanor charges are not dropped, a trial is held later in court of law. If charged with a felony, however, and the charges are not dismissed, the next step is a preliminary hearing.
If you or someone you know in Las Vegas, Nevada, or within the surrounding cities and counties of Nevada, needs the legal counsel or assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer, please contact Attorney Martin Hart, today at 702-380-4278, or complete the contact form provided on this site to begin your consultation with a skillful Las Vegas criminal defense trial