Step 1 - Preliminary Arraignment
A preliminary arraignment, which generally occurs within six hours after the arrest, is when the defendant is read the charges against him or her.
The defendant must appear before the MDJ with the police for a preliminary arraignment.
The defendant is given a copy of the criminal complaint and advised of his/her rights, including to be represented by an attorney. A date for the preliminary hearing will be set and the defendant will be notified.