Can I avoid a criminal arraignment for a false alarm citation by just paying the fines?
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Can I avoid a criminal arraignment for a false alarm citation by just paying the fines?
I received 2 false alarm citations. I submitted paperwork to contest the violations and recently received a criminal arraignment notice and a date for court. Can I just pay the fee and avoid court? Why would I receive a criminal arrangement notice when contesting a simple false alarm for my condo?
Asked on January 2, 2012 under Criminal Law, Georgia
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You cannot simply avoid the criminal arraignment for the charges against you. Rather you are required to appear in court at the proceeding where the criminal charges are read to you as part of your Constitutional Rights and you then make a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest.
Given the fact that the proceeding is a criminal matter where a fine, jail, or both could be imposed against you as part of your sentence if you plea guilty or are convicted of the charges, I recommend that you consult with a criminal defense attorney well before your arraignment about the situation you are in and the best way to proceed.
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