It depends on the individual state. Many states have laws that allow the use of two-way electronic audio-video communication between the defendant and the judge. Mississippi law provides that a defendant can appear via closed circuit television or Web cam. Other states, such as Montana, have a provision that allows a judge to order the defendant to be physically present for the initial appearance.
- What else takes place at the arraignment?
- Can a person choose to waive or decline counsel and represent himself or herself?
- Why does a criminal defendant need an attorney?
- How do you qualify for a court-appointed attorney?
- Are all criminal defendants entitled to a court-appointed attorney?
- What is the right to counsel?
- Who was Gideon and who eventually was his appointed counsel?
- Who appoints an attorney for a criminal defendant?
- What is a bail bondsman?
- How does a court determine if bail is excessive?
- What factors do courts use to determine whether someone is entitled to bail and what amount?
- Are all persons charged with crimes entitled to bail?
- What are the purposes or reasons for bail?
- What is bail?
- Is there a difference between the initial appearance and the arraignment?
- After a person is booked, what happens next?
- Is a person entitled to an attorney during the booking process?
- When a person is arrested and taken into custody, what happens next?
- What warnings must the police give you when they arrest you and place you in custody?
- What is an arrest?
