Arraignments
An arraignment is a court proceeding at the beginning of the criminal process. At an arraignment, the court will advise you of:
- your rights,
- the charges being brought against you, and
- the penalties you will face if you plead guilty or are found guilty of the charges.
The process may take a couple of hours. This all depends upon the charges being brought against you. In addition, you may have to be fingerprinted by the police department
Yes, the court may allow a defendant to enter a plea of not guilty or to stand mute without a formal arraignment.
Under MCR 6.610(D)(4), a waiver of an arraignment requires a written statement signed by the defendant (and any defense counsel of record). The written statement must also include:
- General nature of the charges,
- Maximum possible sentence,
- Rights of defendant at an arraignment, and
- the plea to be entered.
Note: A signed and dated Advice of Rights form must accompany the written statement.
If the arraignment is waived, the court may require a bond that is reasonable under the circumstances.
First, contact the criminal division clerk at (616) 554-0711. The defendant must fill out this form and present it to the court before the day of the arraignment. You can present it in person or by mail to Criminal Division Clerk, 4740 Walma SE, Kentwood, MI 49512 or by fax to (616) 698-8199.
The defendant or the attorney of record must contact the Criminal Division Clerk at (616) 554-0711 for scheduling of all motions, trials, and hearings.