What happens at a criminal arraignment in Dorchester County
If you have been charged with a crime in Dorchester County, Maryland, the first formal court proceeding you will face is the arraignment. An arraignment is a hearing where the court informs you of the charges, advises you of your rights, and asks you to enter a plea. For misdemeanor cases, the arraignment takes place at the District Court of Maryland for Dorchester County, located at 310 Gay Street in Cambridge. For felony cases, the initial appearance and bond review occur in the District Court, and the arraignment on the formal charges follows later in the Dorchester County Circuit Court. Understanding what to expect at this hearing can reduce some of the anxiety that often accompanies a criminal charge. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients at arraignments throughout Dorchester County. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to speak with an experienced attorney about your situation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What happens during the arraignment in Dorchester County
In Dorchester County, the criminal process begins with an arrest and an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner. The commissioner determines whether probable cause exists for the arrest and sets bail or conditions of pretrial release. If you are detained, a bail review hearing must be held in the District Court within 24 hours. The arraignment is the next critical step.
At the arraignment, the judge reads the charging document aloud. You learn precisely what offenses the State is alleging and the maximum penalties each carries. The judge then advises you of your rights: the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to a trial, and the right to confront witnesses. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the court will determine whether you qualify for the Public Defender. If you have retained private counsel, your attorney can enter an appearance and address procedural matters on your behalf.
After the advisement of rights, the judge asks how you plead. The three standard pleas are not guilty, guilty, and nolo contendere. A not-guilty plea preserves all defenses and the case is scheduled for trial. A guilty plea admits the offense and the court proceeds to sentencing, though in many cases a sentencing hearing is set for a later date. A nolo contendere plea—often called “no contest”—has the same immediate effect as a guilty plea but cannot be used against you in related civil litigation. The judge must decide whether to accept a guilty or nolo plea after ensuring it is made knowingly and voluntarily.
If you plead not guilty, the court sets a trial date. In the District Court, misdemeanor trials are typically scheduled within 30 to 90 days of the arraignment. Felony cases proceed to the Circuit Court, where the timeline is longer. The court also addresses any pending motions, such as a request to modify bond or a demand for discovery.
The arraignment is a procedural hearing, not a trial. The State is not required to present evidence at this stage, and the judge does not make any factual findings about guilt or innocence. The purpose is to ensure you understand the charges and to move the case forward. Having an attorney at the arraignment is important because the decisions made at this early stage—including the plea you enter and any conditions of pretrial release—can affect the course of your entire case.
For guidance on what to expect at your arraignment in Dorchester County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an arraignment in a Maryland criminal case?
An arraignment is the hearing at which a defendant is formally advised of the charges and enters a plea. In Maryland’s District Court, the arraignment occurs shortly after arrest and initial appearance. The judge reads the charging document, informs the defendant of the right to counsel, and takes the plea. For misdemeanors, the arraignment and trial may be combined in one hearing if the defendant consents. In the Circuit Court for felonies, the arraignment is a separate formal proceeding after the grand jury returns an indictment or the State files a criminal information.
Do I enter a plea at the arraignment in Dorchester County?
Yes. At the arraignment, you will be asked to enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or nolo contendere. Most defendants plead not guilty at the initial arraignment to preserve their right to a trial and to allow time for discovery and negotiation. A not-guilty plea can later be changed. If you plead guilty, the judge will question you to confirm the plea is voluntary and that you understand the rights you are giving up. Consulting with an attorney before entering any plea is essential because a guilty plea results in a conviction that may carry immigration, employment, and other collateral consequences.
What happens if I cannot afford a lawyer in Dorchester County?
If you are financially eligible, the Office of the Public Defender will represent you at no cost. At the initial appearance or arraignment, you can request a public defender. The court will ask about your income, assets, and household size. If you qualify, an attorney is appointed. If you do not qualify, you may hire private counsel. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Accepts a limited number of private criminal defense matters in Dorchester County and offers consultations by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Maryland?
Probation Before Judgment is a Maryland disposition that avoids a formal conviction on your record. Instead of entering a guilty verdict, the judge places the defendant on probation for a set period under specific conditions. If probation is completed successfully, the case is closed without a conviction. PBJ is available for many misdemeanors and some felonies at the District Court of Maryland for Dorchester County. After the probationary period ends, the PBJ can be expunged under Maryland’s Criminal Procedure Article § 6-220, typically after a three-year waiting period. PBJ is a significant benefit, but it is not guaranteed and depends on the nature of the offense and the defendant’s history.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Dorchester County?
Yes, Maryland law allows expungement for many dispositions including acquittals, dismissals, nolle prosequi, stet, and PBJ after the required waiting period. Under the Justice Reinvestment Act, certain non-violent convictions may also be eligible for expungement after a specified time. Expungement is sought in the court where the case was heard—either the District Court of Maryland for Dorchester County or the Dorchester County Circuit Court. Expungement removes police and court records from public view, but the process requires a petition and is not automatic. An attorney can help determine eligibility and file the petition correctly.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Dorchester County?
After arrest, you appear before a District Court commissioner who sets bail or conditions of release. If you are held in custody, a bail review hearing occurs in the District Court within 24 hours. The commissioner’s decision is based on factors including the severity of the charges, your ties to the community, and your criminal history. After the initial appearance, the case proceeds to arraignment. For misdemeanors, the trial is scheduled at the District Court. For felonies, the case moves to the Circuit Court, where a preliminary hearing or grand jury indictment may be required before arraignment on the formal charges. Throughout this process, having an attorney to protect your rights is critical.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court in Dorchester County?
District Court handles misdemeanor trials and preliminary matters in felony cases, while Circuit Court handles felony jury trials. The District Court of Maryland for Dorchester County, at 310 Gay Street in Cambridge, is the court of limited jurisdiction. It has no jury trials; a judge decides the case. If convicted, a defendant may appeal the decision to the Circuit Court. The Dorchester County Circuit Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction and hears all felony cases. Circuit Court proceedings include jury trials, and the penalties upon conviction are generally more severe. The State’s Attorney for Dorchester County prosecutes cases in both courts.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Dorchester County?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer, but the stakes in many Maryland misdemeanors are significant enough that experienced counsel is strongly recommended. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. An attorney can negotiate a Probation Before Judgment, seek a dismissal, or prepare a defense for trial. At the District Court of Maryland for Dorchester County, the judge may accept a PBJ or a reduced charge if the circumstances support it, but only if these options are properly presented. Going to court without an attorney means you must navigate the rules of evidence and procedure on your own while the State is represented by a trained prosecutor.
What should I bring to my arraignment in Dorchester County?
Bring your citation or summons, any bond paperwork you received, a notepad, and contact information for your attorney. If you have retained private counsel, your lawyer will likely provide you with specific instructions. Dress conservatively and arrive early to clear security at the courthouse. The District Court at 310 Gay Street in Cambridge has court hours Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. To 4:30 p.m. It is advisable to leave electronic devices, weapons, and non-essential items outside the courthouse. If you have an attorney, your lawyer can advise you on additional documents or information that may be helpful.
How do I find a criminal defense lawyer for my Dorchester County case?
You can seek referrals from trusted sources, research attorney profiles online, and contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your matter. The firm’s criminal defense practice is led by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and includes Of Counsel attorneys with deep Maryland experience. All consultations are by appointment, and the firm’s Maryland location is at 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with a team member about your arraignment and the next steps in your case. Former clients have reviewed the firm favorably; results vary, and prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result
What happens if I miss my arraignment in Dorchester County?
If you fail to appear for a scheduled arraignment, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. A bench warrant authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody and bring you before the court. Missing a court date also risks forfeiture of any bond that was posted. If you have a legitimate reason for missing the hearing, such as a medical emergency, you or your attorney should contact the court immediately to explain the circumstances and request a new date. An attorney can help quash the warrant and minimize the consequences of a missed appearance.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He keeps a limited personal caseload so that every client matter receives focused attention. Working alongside Mr. Sris is a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each with over a decade of practice experience. Several Of Counsel attorneys have served as former Maryland prosecutors or Virginia law enforcement officers, which lends a practical perspective to criminal defense in Dorchester County and across the state.
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder
Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York
Practicing since 1997
For additional information about criminal defense in other Maryland counties, please see:
Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer · Prince George’s County criminal defense lawyer · Howard County criminal defense lawyer · Anne Arundel County criminal defense lawyer · Frederick County criminal defense lawyer
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