What happens when someone is arrested?

Generally, an arrest is the first stage in the criminal justice process, although in cases involving non-alcohol-related traffic infractions, defendants will almost always be issued traffic citations and not be taken into custody. In most cases, other than traffic infractions, the defendant will be fingerprinted. Police officers will also prepare reports concerning the offense and the arrest.


For many less-serious crimes and petty offenses, the arresting officer may give the defendant an appearance ticket, which allows the officer to release the defendant from custody and requires the defendant to appear in court at a later date. If an appearance ticket is not issued, a defendant will be held to appear before a judge.

Show All Answers

1. What types of offenses are there in New York?
2. What happens when someone is arrested?
3. What is the function of the District Attorney?
4. What is an arraignment?
5. What is bail and how is it set?
6. What happens to a misdemeanor or violation case after arraignment?
7. What happens to a felony case after arraignment?
8. Are grand jury proceedings open to the public?
9. What happens after a grand jury votes an indictment?
10. What is a trial?
11. What are the stages of a trial?
12. What types of sentences may be imposed if a person pleads guilty or is found guilty after a trial?
13. Can a convicted defendant or the District Attorney take a case to a higher court?