What Happens at Arraignment in Ohio

Arraignment is the first meaningful step in an Ohio criminal case, and it sets the tone for everything that follows. It is the moment where the court formally presents the charges, explains your rights, and requires you to enter a plea. It is also when bond is set and when key legal deadlines begin to run. Understanding what happens at arraignment helps you protect your rights, avoid unnecessary mistakes, and navigate the criminal process with confidence.

Understanding Arraignment: Definition and Purpose

Arraignment is governed by Criminal Rule 10. It must take place in open court and involves the judge reading the indictment, information, or complaint, or stating the substance of the charges, and then calling on the defendant to plead. You may waive the formal reading of the charges, but you must receive a copy of the charging document before entering a plea.

What Happens During Arraignment

Formal Reading of Charges

The court begins by presenting the charges. The judge will either read the full charging document aloud or summarize the allegations in clear terms. You must acknowledge receipt of the complaint, information, or indictment before the court accepts a plea.

Advisement of Constitutional Rights

Criminal Rules 5(A) and 10 require the judge to explain essential constitutional rights. You must be informed of:

• The nature of the charges

• The right to retain counsel and to receive a reasonable continuance to obtain one

• The right to appointed counsel if you cannot afford an attorney

• The right to remain silent and that any statements can be used against you

• The right to bail if the offense allows it

• The right to a preliminary hearing in felony cases when not yet indicted

• The right to jury trial and the requirement to demand it in petty offense cases

  
  

If you appear without counsel, the judge must specifically confirm that you understand these rights and that you may still obtain counsel even if you originally planned to plead guilty.

Entering Your Plea

You may enter one of three pleas:

• Not Guilty — Recommended. This preserves all rights and requires the State to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If you are planning to fight your charges, you must plead not guilty.

• Guilty. Before accepting a guilty plea, the court must ensure you understand that you are waiving your right to remain silent, your right to jury trial, your right to confront witnesses, and your right to compulsory process.

• No Contest. This plea has the same criminal effect as a guilty plea but may have different implications in civil cases.

Appointment of Counsel

If you cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to court-appointed counsel in an OVI case. Criminal Rule 44 requires courts to appoint counsel before imposing any jail time. Since OVI is a jailable offense, you are entitled to representation unless you voluntarily choose to waive it.

A court cannot impose jail or even suspended jail time unless you had an attorney or you properly waived that right. A valid waiver must be knowing, intelligent, and voluntary, but practically speaking, courts rarely accept waivers in OVI cases because of the mandatory jail component.

Bail in OVI Cases

At arraignment, the court will set bond. Under the current law in Ohio — including what was formerly Criminal Rule 46 and now statutory provisions enacted by the General Assembly effective July 1, 2023 — the judge’s goals are the same: to reasonably assure your appearance in court and protect public safety. The court must consider factors such as your criminal history, prior failures to appear, ties to the community, employment, and the specifics of the current charge.

Remote and Video Arraignment

Ohio allows arraignment by video or closed-circuit television as long as the process complies with Criminal Rule 43(A)(2) and provides meaningful participation. Video arraignment is constitutionally adequate when it is functionally equivalent to being physically present.

Consequences of Missing Arraignment

Missing arraignment can result in:

• A bench warrant

• Bond forfeiture, which may also impact sureties depending on the circumstances

• Additional criminal charges

  
  

Practical Guidance for Defendants

• Before Arraignment. Arrive early, dress respectfully, and bring all relevant paperwork.

• During Arraignment. Speak clearly, answer only what the judge asks, and ask for clarification if needed.

• After Arraignment. Follow all bond conditions, stay in contact with your attorney, and keep track of every upcoming court date.

Conclusion

Arraignment is a foundational step in every Ohio criminal case. It is the moment where charges become real, rights are explained, bond is set, and the path of the case begins to take shape. By understanding what to expect and how to protect your rights, you can move forward with clarity and confidence while allowing your attorney to begin building the strongest possible defense.