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If you are charged with either a misdemeanor or petty offense, (both of which are criminal) you must appear at the Court on the date and time listed on your complaint or summons.  Failure to appear at any court appearance may result in a warrant for arrest being issued for you. 

The first appearance will be the arraignment.  The arraignment is the time for you to enter into one of the following pleas: 

• Guilty
• No Contest
• Not Guilty 

When a plea of not guilty is entered, the second court appearance is a pre-trial.  This is an opportunity for you to meet with the prosecutors to get discovery (view and order copies of police reports, witness statements, etc.) and to do plea negotiations if you wish.

The third court appearance is a trial.  Cases eligible for a jury trial are: 

• Driving Under the Influence
• Shoplifting and theft
• Other charges may be Jury eligible

Victims have a right to be present and heard at all stages of the proceedings.