In a misdemeanor case in Virginia, what is the first court step?

In a misdemeanor case in Virginia, what is the first court step?

• A. Arraignment in General District Court
• B. Preliminary hearing
• C. Indictment
• D. Sentencing

Answer: (A)

Virginia misdemeanors begin in General District Court, and the first court step is arraignment. At arraignment, the charges are read, the defendant is informed of rights, and a plea is entered (often not guilty to move toward trial). Bail decisions can be made at this time, and a trial date is set if the plea is not guilty. The other options involve procedures for more serious offenses and do not occur at the first step in misdemeanor cases. Sentencing, if it happens, follows a conviction, not the initial appearance.

Virginia misdemeanors begin in General District Court, and the first court step is arraignment. At arraignment, the charges are read, the defendant is informed of rights, and a plea is entered (often not guilty to move toward trial). Bail decisions can be made at this time, and a trial date is set if the plea is not guilty. The other options involve procedures for more serious offenses and do not occur at the first step in misdemeanor cases. Sentencing, if it happens, follows a conviction, not the initial appearance.