What Is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is the formal court hearing where a judge reads the charges against you, and you enter a plea. In Greenville County, it does not happen the day you are arrested. For people facing criminal charges in South Carolina, Watson Fowler’s former prosecutors know how these early dates work, and our criminal defense services often start before an arraignment is scheduled.
Is an Arraignment the Same as a Bond Hearing?
They are separate events. South Carolina law requires a bond hearing within 24 hours of arrest, and Greenville County Bond Court is held at the Law Enforcement Center. If you are held at the Greenville County Detention Center, a judge will decide:
- Whether you can be released before trial
- The type and amount of any bond
- Conditions such as no contact with an alleged victim
You will not enter any plea at bond court. Your first appearance in the Court of General Sessions usually comes weeks later, and the formal arraignment on an indictment may follow.
What Rights Will the Judge Explain at an Arraignment?
The judge will make sure you understand the charges. You will also hear a reminder of the three rights:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to legal representation
- The right to a trial
The prosecutor can hear anything you say in the courtroom. It is usually best to let our attorneys do the talking.
Letter of Representation and Your First Appearance
Once you hire our team, we can file a Letter of Representation with the Solicitor’s Office. In many circuits, that filing can excuse you from the first appearance, since that date mainly confirms you have counsel. That can save you a day off work.
Greenville County still expects you at every scheduled date unless a judge or the Solicitor’s Office excuses you. Our attorneys will confirm whether you need to go.
Common Questions About Greenville Arraignments
These questions come up often before Greenville County court dates. The answers fit most, but not all, cases. We can clarify answers specific to your case’s circumstances.
Do I Enter a Final Plea at a Greenville Arraignment?
You usually will not. Most defendants plead not guilty at first so their defense team can review the state’s evidence, called discovery.
Will the Judge Hear Evidence or Testimony?
The judge hears neither one. An arraignment is a procedural step, so no witnesses testify.
Can I Get a Personal Recognizance Bond?
You may qualify for one. Under S.C. Code § 17-15-10, a judge must first consider releasing you on your promise to return, called a personal recognizance bond. The judge can add conditions if you seem likely to flee or pose a danger.
Bring In Our Greenville Criminal Defense Lawyer Early
The weeks after bond court are when evidence is requested, and a defense plan takes shape. Watson Fowler brings over 60 years of combined legal experience to that early work, whether the arrest was yours or a family member’s. Call 864-467-0380 or request a free consultation online from anywhere in the Upstate.