what happens at an arraignment hearing for a felony

An arraignment hearing for a felony is a court proceeding that takes place in criminal cases that involve felony charges. The hearing is considered a formal reading of the charges against the defendant. During the hearing, the judge will advise the defendant of their rights, including their right to remain silent, their right to an attorney, and their right to have a trial and be presumed innocent until proven guilty. The judge will then tell the defendant what they are charged with in the indictment or the felony information. After the charges are read, the judge will ask the defendant how they plead. In most cases, a defendant would be advised by their attorney to plead not guilty because it is the states burden to prove the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If the defendant enters a not guilty plea, the judge will make a determination if that defendant can afford an attorney. If they cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for them. The court will then set the matter in the felony case for whats called a Case Management Hearing. The judge will also be apprised of what the release conditions are, and if theres a motion to re-determine release conditions, the court may address that motion at that time.