If you or someone you love has just been arrested, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially if you’ve never set foot in a courtroom. One of the first steps after an arrest in Nevada is the arraignment. But what exactly happens during this process?
At eBail, we’ve helped thousands of families navigate the confusing steps that follow an arrest. Below, we break down what to expect at an arraignment so you can feel more prepared and less panicked.
What Is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is the first court appearance after an arrest. This is where the judge formally tells the defendant what charges they’re facing and asks how they plead: guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
This hearing typically happens within 72 hours of arrest, not counting weekends or holidays. That means if someone is arrested late Friday night, their arraignment likely won’t happen until Monday or Tuesday.
Where Do Arraignments Take Place in Clark County?
In most cases, arraignments are held at the Las Vegas Justice Court (Regional Justice Center) for misdemeanor and felony charges. If the person was arrested in North Las Vegas, Henderson, or another nearby area, their arraignment might happen at that city’s municipal or justice court.
Knowing where your loved one is being held can help you figure out where their arraignment will take place.
What Actually Happens During the Arraignment?
Here’s a step-by-step of what usually goes down:
1. The Judge Calls the Case
The courtroom may be full of people with different charges. The judge will call each case one by one.
2. Charges Are Read
The judge or prosecutor reads the official charges aloud. This is the first time the charges are presented formally in court.
3. Plea is Entered
The defendant will be asked how they plead — guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Most people plead not guilty at this stage so they can speak to an attorney or fight the charges.
4. Bail Review (If Applicable)
If the defendant is still in custody, the judge may review the bail amount. The judge can keep it the same, raise it, lower it, or release the person on their own recognizance (O.R.), depending on the charge and circumstances.
5. Next Court Date Is Scheduled
This is usually called a preliminary hearing or status check, depending on the case.
Can I Bail Someone Out Before the Arraignment?
Yes! In many cases, we can help you post bail before the arraignment even happens — which means your loved one might not have to appear in court in shackles or wait in jail all weekend.
Give us a call at (702) 462-9200 and we’ll check the booking information, bail amount, and walk you through the process step by step.
Do You Need a Lawyer at the Arraignment?
It’s highly recommended. If the defendant doesn’t already have a private attorney, the judge may appoint a public defender at the arraignment — especially for felony or serious misdemeanor charges.
If you’re unsure who to call, we work with reliable defense attorneys every day and can help point you in the right direction.
We’re Here to Help — 24/7
Arraignments can feel intimidating, but you’re not alone. At eBail, we make it our mission to help people through these stressful moments with speed, compassion, and experience.
Whether you’re posting bail at 2 AM or have questions about what comes next, we’re here for you — holidays and weekends included.
📞 Call us anytime at 702-462-9200
