Your first appearance in a Texas criminal court—known as the arraignment—sets the foundation for the rest of your case. It is the moment where the judge informs you of the charges, your rights, and your options moving forward. Understanding what happens at this stage can make the process far less overwhelming. For official legal standards, review the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and the Texas Judicial Branch guidance.
At The Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we’ve represented clients throughout South Texas for more than 30 years. We speak Spanish, maintain deep ties across the region’s courts, and take pride in knowing every client personally. From our roots in South Texas to our long history of trying cases here, we’ve built a practice grounded in community, commitment, and strong defense.
Your First Court Appearance: What Really Happens
The arraignment is not a trial. Instead, it is a formal proceeding where:
- The judge reads the charges against you
- Your rights are explained
- You’re informed of potential penalties
- You enter a plea
If you have already hired an attorney, your lawyer may appear on your behalf in certain misdemeanor cases. In felony cases, your presence is typically required.
For many people, this hearing is intimidating—especially if it is their first experience in the criminal justice system. Having a criminal defense lawyer represent you ensures that the court understands you are prepared to defend yourself and that someone is safeguarding your rights at every stage.
Plea Options at Arraignment
Texas defendants generally have three plea choices:
1. Not Guilty
Most defense attorneys recommend entering a not-guilty plea at arraignment. It preserves your rights and provides time to review evidence, negotiate, or challenge the legality of how the case began.
2. Guilty
Entering a guilty plea at arraignment is rare and risky. Without reviewing the evidence, you may unknowingly accept consequences that could have been avoided—especially in cases like DWI, assault, or drug charges where evidence may be challenged.
3. No Contest (Nolo Contendere)
This plea does not admit guilt but accepts punishment. It can be strategic in certain situations because it cannot be used against you in civil court.
The plea you enter determines your next steps, which is why having an experienced advocate—whether you need a defense attorney or a specialist for specific charges—is essential at this stage.
What Happens After the Plea?
Once you enter your plea, the judge will discuss:
- Bond conditions
- Future court dates
- Discovery timelines
- Possible plea negotiations
In many counties across South Texas, the next stage is the pre-trial phase. This is where we investigate the evidence, interview witnesses, challenge unlawful police conduct, and determine whether dismissal, reduction, or trial is the best option.
Because DWI cases are especially common in Texas—and often aggressively prosecuted—having a knowledgeable DWI attorney can make a significant difference in how your case progresses after arraignment.
Why Experienced Local Defense Matters
An arraignment may seem procedural, but it can shape the entire direction of your case. Our experience handling thousands of cases across South Texas gives us insight into:
- How local judges handle arraignments
- How prosecutors negotiate early cases
- When evidence is likely to be weak
- When police may have violated constitutional rights
- How to position clients for the strongest defense
For more than 30 years, we’ve been committed to protecting Texans. From our South Texas upbringing to our lifelong work in these courts, we know this region, its people, and its legal system better than anyone.
Why Should You Hire The Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates?
Legal problems can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, our skilled team defends Texans with dedication and decades of South Texas experience—whether you need a criminal defense lawyer or a criminal law attorney in San Antonio. Explore our practice areas or see how we can help. For immediate support, call now—we’re available 24/7 and ready to stand by you.
