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The initial court appearance for a petty misdemeanor or misdemeanor charge is called an arraignment hearing. At the arraignment hearing, the defendant is advised of his or her legal rights, may apply for a public defender and may enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
The initial court appearance for a gross misdemeanor or felony charge is called an initial appearance, first appearance, or Rule 5 hearing. The defendant is advised of his or her legal rights and is advised of the charge or charges. The defendant may apply for a public defender. However, no plea is taken from the defendant.
Initial Court Appearances
A defendant is sentenced after pleading guilty or being found guilty by the judge or jury. Petty misdemeanor, misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor sentences are often given at the time a defendant pleads guilty. A judge has discretion regarding the sentence imposed and usually bases the sentence on a combination of the seriousness of the offense and the defendant's criminal history. Sentences for felony level charges are often set on a date after the defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty. Prior to sentencing, a Pre-Sentence Investigation is completed by Community Corrections and recommendations are made to the judge regarding the sentenced to be imposed. Felony sentences are governed by the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines.
Sentencings
Washington County Attorney Pete Orput Announces Retirement (Published January 2022)
Juvenile Charged with Robbery, Assault and Theft of Motor Vehicle from November 8, 2021 Incidents in Woodbury (Published November 2021)