A judge reads the charges, sets bail and appoints an attorney if one is needed. In felony cases, a date is often set for arraignment or preliminary hearing. In misdemeanors, the initial appearance is also the arraignment and the defendant enters a plea. Misdemeanor A crime that may be punishable by confinement to a county jail, generally for one year or less. An oral or written request about a legal question made by the prosecutor or the defense attorney before, during or after a trial.
Motions ask the court to issue a rule or order regarding the case.
Preliminary hearing During this hearing a prosecuting attorney attempts to establish that a crime was committed and the defendant committed that crime. If probable cause is established, the case will proceed. If not established the case is dismissed. Probation Supervised freedom. As an alternative to serving time in prison, some individuals convicted of a crime are allowed to remain free, but with restrictions on their daily activities.