What happens at an arraignment in Dallas County?

Is arraignment the same as the hearing at the jail?

No. Many people call the first appearance after arrest an "arraignment," but in Texas that is magistration under article 15.17. A magistrate at the jail, such as Lew Sterrett in Dallas, explains the charge and your rights, decides on appointed counsel requests, and sets bail. Arraignment comes later, in the trial court.

When is there an arraignment?

Article 26.01 requires an arraignment in all felony cases after indictment and in misdemeanor cases punishable by jail. In a felony, there cannot be an arraignment until at least two full days after a copy of the indictment was served, unless that is waived or the defendant is on bail (26.03).

What happens in the courtroom?

1. The clerk or judge calls your name as stated in the charge. If the name is wrong, say so then (26.07 and 26.08).
2. The indictment or information is read, unless reading is waived.
3. You are asked how you plead. If you do not answer, a plea of not guilty is entered (26.12).
4. The court sets the next date.

Should I plead guilty at arraignment?

Usually not. A not guilty plea preserves your options while your lawyer reviews the evidence. Before accepting a guilty plea, the judge must give warnings about the range of punishment and other consequences (26.13).

Do I have to attend?

If you have a lawyer, the lawyer may present a waiver of arraignment, and the clerk may not require your presence as a condition of accepting it (26.011). Always follow your bond conditions and any court notice about appearance. Missing a required setting can lead to a warrant and bond forfeiture.

What should I bring?

• Your bond paperwork and court notice
• Photo identification
• Your lawyer's contact information

Where are these cases heard outside Dallas?

Felony cases are heard in the district courts of the county where the offense is alleged to have happened. We handle cases from our only office, in downtown Dallas, in 12 North Texas counties. Each county page lists the courthouse, the prosecutor's office and the jail: Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Rockwall, Kaufman, Ellis, Johnson, Parker, Wise, Hunt, Navarro.

Where are these cases heard in Dallas County?

People arrested in Dallas County are usually booked at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center, where a magistrate sets bond within 48 hours. Misdemeanors are heard in the Dallas County Criminal Courts and felonies in the Criminal District Courts, both at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. The Dallas County District Attorney's Office prosecutes both.

How do I get started?

The first consultation is free. It is with a Director of Client Engagement, not an attorney. Clients who hire us work with an attorney. Call (214) 239-2013 or start a chat. Phones and chat are answered 24/7, with AI covering when no staff is free.

Last updated October 2026