What happens at a criminal arraignment in Baltimore County
If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Baltimore County, your first formal appearance before a judge will likely be an arraignment. Understanding what to expect can help reduce uncertainty. At the arraignment, held at the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County (for misdemeanors) or the Circuit Court for Baltimore County (for felonies), the court will formally inform you of the charges, advise you of your rights, and ask you to enter a plea. The judge will also address bail conditions and set a schedule for further proceedings. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney present is critical—Ms. Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor, leads the criminal defense team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and is familiar with Baltimore County courts. Reach us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
The Arraignment Procedure in Detail
After an arrest in Baltimore County, an initial appearance is held before a District Court commissioner, who sets bail or conditions of release. A bail review hearing may follow within 24 hours if the defendant remains in custody. The formal arraignment is then scheduled. At the arraignment, the judge reads the charges, advises the defendant of the right to counsel, and accepts a plea—typically not guilty, which preserves the ability to negotiate later. For misdemeanors, the case stays in District Court; felonies are forwarded to Circuit Court for trial. The court also sets discovery deadlines and a scheduling conference. The presence of counsel is essential to ensure that rights are protected, that any bail issues are addressed promptly, and that a strategic plea is entered. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., prepares clients for each step, helping them understand the process and the options available under Maryland law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Arraignments in Baltimore County
What exactly happens at a criminal arraignment in Baltimore County?
At a criminal arraignment in Baltimore County, you will appear before a judge, be formally advised of the charges against you, and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or, with court permission, no contest. The court will also address bail conditions and set a schedule for further proceedings. In District Court, the case may be set for trial relatively soon; in Circuit Court, a scheduling hearing follows. Having an experienced attorney ensures that your rights are explained and that any potential issues—such as bail modification—are raised immediately.
Do I need a lawyer for my arraignment in Baltimore County?
Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. An experienced attorney can also address bail, enter a strategic plea, and begin building a defense from the earliest stage. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between District Court and Circuit Court arraignments?
In Baltimore County, misdemeanors are arraigned in the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County (120 East Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, MD 21286), while felonies are arraigned in the Baltimore County Circuit Court. District Court handles the initial appearance and sets bail; Circuit Court holds the formal arraignment for felony charges. Procedures are similar, but Circuit Court involves stricter deadlines and the possibility of a jury trial. A lawyer familiar with both courts can guide you through the differences.
How is bail set at the arraignment in Baltimore County?
Bail is initially set by a District Court commissioner at the first appearance; at the arraignment, the judge may review and modify bail conditions. Maryland permits pretrial release on personal recognizance, bail, or conditions of release. The court considers factors such as the nature of the offense, ties to the community, and criminal history. An experienced defense attorney can argue for reduced bail or release on recognizance.
Can I get my charges reduced or dismissed at the arraignment?
At the arraignment itself, charges are typically not reduced or dismissed; however, the plea entered can set the stage for later negotiations. In Maryland, the State’s Attorney may agree to amend charges, offer a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), or even nolle prosequi (drop the case) after further investigation. A skilled defense attorney can explore these possibilities and begin discussions with the prosecutor early in the process.
What should I bring to my arraignment in Baltimore County?
Bring a government-issued photo ID, a copy of the charging document or summons, and any documentation related to bail, employment, or character references. If you have retained an attorney, they will guide you on what additional documents may be needed. Arrive early, dress conservatively, and avoid bringing contraband or unnecessary electronics. Your attorney can also help coordinate witnesses or evidence that may be relevant to bail arguments.
When will my trial be scheduled after the arraignment?
In Baltimore County District Court, misdemeanor cases typically proceed from arraignment to trial within 30 to 90 days; in Circuit Court, felony cases may take 3 to 12 months, subject to the Hicks date (180-day speedy trial rule). The court sets a scheduling conference after the arraignment to establish discovery deadlines, motion cut-off dates, and the trial date. An attorney can help ensure that deadlines are met and that your right to a speedy trial is preserved.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) and can it be discussed at arraignment?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson (120 East Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, MD 21286). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period). While PBJ is not granted at arraignment, an attorney can assess eligibility and discuss the possibility with the prosecutor.
Can I get my record expunged after a case in Baltimore County?
Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Baltimore County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson). An attorney can help determine eligibility and file the correct petition. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. assists clients with post-conviction relief.
What happens if I miss my arraignment in Baltimore County?
If you fail to appear for your arraignment, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest and bail may be forfeited. A failure-to-appear can also lead to additional charges and complicate your defense. Contact your attorney immediately if you miss a court date; they can file a motion to recall the warrant and explain the circumstances to the judge. Prompt action is critical.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor and has been practicing since 1997. Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, he has built a multi-state firm that handles criminal defense across five jurisdictions. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary.
In Maryland, Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney), leads the criminal defense practice and appears regularly in Baltimore County courts. The firm’s Rockville location—199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850—serves clients by appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
Our criminal defense attorneys also serve clients in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County.
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.