What to Expect at Your Arraignment at the Marin County Courthouse
If you've been charged with a crime in Marin County, your first court date is the arraignment — and for most people it's their first time in a courtroom. Knowing what's coming makes a stressful day far easier. Here's what to expect at an arraignment at the Marin County courthouse.
This is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different, and an attorney can tell you what to expect in your specific situation.
Where arraignments happen in Marin County
Criminal matters in Marin County are heard at the Marin County Superior Court, located in the Civic Center / Hall of Justice at 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903 — the landmark Frank Lloyd Wright–designed building. The criminal division's exact room can change, so always check your arraignment letter or the posted court calendar on the day, find your name and assigned courtroom, and go directly there. If your name isn't on a calendar, report to the Criminal Clerk's Office.
There's free all-day parking under and around the building, but give yourself time — the complex is large and security screening takes a few minutes.
What an arraignment actually is
The arraignment is the formal start of the case, not a trial. At it, the court will tell you the formal charges and give you a copy of the complaint, advise you of your constitutional rights including the right to an attorney, take your plea (typically guilty, not guilty, or no contest), and address release conditions and future court dates. In the great majority of cases, the right move at this stage is a not-guilty plea, which preserves your options while your attorney reviews the evidence.
You generally must appear — don't skip it
Marin County treats appearance seriously: misdemeanors, felonies, and warrants all generally require you to appear on the date and time listed on your release paperwork or arraignment letter. Failure to appear can result in a warrant for your arrest. For many misdemeanor cases, your attorney may be able to appear on your behalf, but confirm that with counsel before assuming you can skip it.
Practical tips for the day
Arrive early for parking and security screening.
Bring your paperwork — jail release papers, notice to appear, bail or bond receipts, or your arraignment letter, plus photo ID.
Check the posted calendar for your name and courtroom as soon as you arrive.
Dress respectfully and silence your phone.
Be patient — calendars are busy and cases are called in an order you don't control, so plan for the morning.
Why "just explaining yourself" doesn't work
Many people expect to tell the judge their side and have it all clear up. An arraignment isn't the place for that — your story comes later, through your attorney, after the evidence is reviewed. Trying to explain at arraignment rarely helps and can sometimes hurt.
Why it helps to have an attorney first
Walking in with representation changes the day: counsel can enter the right plea, argue for release or lower bail, often appear for you in misdemeanor cases, and start reviewing the evidence immediately so your defense begins on day one.
Frequently asked questions
What plea should I enter? Usually not guilty, to protect your rights while the case is evaluated — but it depends on your circumstances.
Can my lawyer appear without me? For many misdemeanors, yes. For felonies, you generally must appear in person.
How long will it take? The hearing itself is short, but you may wait for your case to be called, so budget for the morning.
What if I can't afford a lawyer? If you qualify, the court can appoint a public defender. You can also consult a private attorney about your options.
Facing an arraignment in Marin County?
If you have an upcoming arraignment at the Marin County Civic Center, the days before your court date are when an attorney can do the most good. Chambers Defense offers a free, confidential consultation to prepare you for what's ahead.
Call 415-849-7676 today.