What is it called when you first go to court?

Asked by: Hazel Gleichner  |  Last update: July 23, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (11 votes)

Your arraignment or first appearance in court. Learn about what happens in the criminal court process at an arraignment.

What is it called when you go to court for the first time?

The arraignment. An arraignment is usually the first court date in a criminal case. At an arraignment, a defendant finds out what they're charged with and what rights they have. If they can't afford a lawyer, the judge can appoint one for them.

What is the court of first entry?

: the court first taking jurisdiction of a case compare court of appeal.

What happens when you first go to court?

The first court date in a criminal matter is called an arraignment. The judge will briefly advise you of your constitutional rights. You will be advised of the charges that have been filed against you.

What is the initial hearing?

An initial appearance refers to a court hearing where a defendant is first brought before a judge , usually after being arrested or charged with a crime . During this hearing, the defendant is informed of the charges against them, and the judge may set bail , appoint an attorney, or schedule future court dates.

What To Expect When Going To Court

29 related questions found

What is another term for the initial hearing?

First appearance, also known as a “48-hour hearing,” “magistration,” “arraignment” or “presentment,” is the initial court appearance for a defendant in a criminal case.

What is an entry of order hearing?

An entry hearing is a court hearing where the judge formally enters the agreed-upon final orders into the record. In your case, the final orders state that you will pay child support as if you were employed, even though you are currently a stay-at-home dad.

What is the first step in the court process?

Arraignment

The defendant goes to court. They find out what they're charged with and what their rights are. The judge will ask if they are ready to plea.

What are the most common legal terms?

The following definitions will make it easier for you to understand common legal words and phrases used frequently during a trial.
  • Action, Case, Suit. A legal dispute brought into court for a hearing or trial.
  • Answer. ...
  • Acquit. ...
  • Cause of Action. ...
  • Challenge for Cause. ...
  • Closing Argument. ...
  • Complaint. ...
  • Counterclaim.

What comes first in court?

The side bringing the case is the side that bears the burden of proof, and thus always goes first. This is the prosecuting attorney in a criminal case, or the plaintiff in a civil case. The defense then follows with their opening statement.

What is the first thing that courts do is settle?

In general, courts have three basic functions, only one of which you probably learned in your history class. The first thing that courts do is settle disputes.

What is the court of first impression?

First impression is a new legal issue or interpretation that is brought before a court. In a case of first impression, the exact issue before the court has not been addressed by that court, or within that court's jurisdiction , thus there is no binding authority on that matter.

What is the word for starting a court case?

Petitioner: Another word for plaintiff, the person starting the lawsuit. Plaintiff: The person who sues or starts a civil case, also called the petitioner or the complainant. Plea: An accused persons answer to a criminal charge.

Do you go to jail immediately after court?

If a defendant goes to court on their own, enters a plea of no contest or guilty with the prosecution, and is then given a sentence to jail, then they are going to go to jail immediately almost 100% of the time.

What is the first name in a court case?

Note: In a trial court case, the first name listed is the plaintiff, the party bringing the suit. The name following the "v" is the defendant. If the case is appealed, as in this example, the name of the petitioner (appellant) is usually listed first, and the name of the respondent (appellee) is listed second.

What is the initial appearance in court?

Either the same day or the day after a defendant is arrested and charged, they are brought before a magistrate judge for an initial hearing on the case.

Can you go to jail at an arraignment?

Yes, you can absolutely go to jail at an arraignment in California. An arraignment is the first court appearance after an arrest.

What is the first thing a judge says in court?

The bailiff announces when a judge enters a courtroom by saying, “All rise!” to show respect. Everyone stands until the judge says, “Please be seated.”

Can you refuse to enter a plea?

A defendant may plead guilty, not guilty, or, with the consent of the court, nolo contendere. If the defendant refuses to plead, or if a defendant corporation fails to appear, the court must enter a plea of not guilty. Fed. R.

Does pleading guilty reduce your sentence?

You may be able to enter into a favorable plea agreement with the prosecutor if you agree to plead guilty. They may drop the charges to a less serious offense or agree to reduce your sentence. This can be extremely beneficial, especially if you face a jail or prison sentence.

Can I sue after being found not guilty?

If you are accused of a crime and acquitted or otherwise found not guilty of the offense, you can still face a civil lawsuit for the same incident. The Double Jeopardy clause only protects you from subsequent criminal prosecution in the legal system.

What is an order to appear in court called?

subpoena - A command to a witness to appear and give testimony.

What is a case entry?

It serves as an official record of the actions, decisions, and orders made by the court. The entry typically includes details such as the date, time, and location of the proceeding, as well as the names of the parties involved and the judge presiding over the case.

What is an entry of plea?

A plea hearing constitutes a formal legal process in which a defendant formally addresses criminal charges levied against them. During this phase, the defendant may choose to proclaim their innocence, admit guilt, or opt for a “nolo contendere” (no contest) plea.