You have just completed the Arraignment in your case. At the Arraignment, the judge told you the charges you are facing, set a bond, and you were referred to the Office of Assigned Counsel for an appointed lawyer. Also, you entered a plea of not guilty (or the judge entered a not guilty plea on your behalf). The purpose of this website page is to answer some of the questions you probably have about your situation.

Felony Information

Do complainants and witnesses have to appear at the preliminary examination?


Witnesses and complainants are required to appear in case either the prosecution or defendant requests to hold the preliminary examination.


What if someone saw who committed the alleged crime, but they do not want to get involved?  Can someone else tell the judge what they saw?


No, that would be hearsay unless it falls under an exception to the Rules of Evidence. A witness must testify to what they saw or did. The neighbor can subpoena your neighbor to come to court.


What if I don't speak or understand English very well?


The court will provide an interpreter for the court proceedings.


Can the defendant be ordered to pay restitution to me?


If the defendant is found guilty, then the judge determines the amount of restitution as a part of the sentence. The restitution amount should be supported by receipts for damages, medical bills, proof of lost wages, etc.


Will I have the same attorney from beginning to end?


You should.  Every effort is made for the defendant to have the same attorney for all court proceedings, once appointed.