QUESTION

Are charges required to be read to a Defendant at an arraignment?

Asked on Aug 20th, 2013 on Traffic Violations - New Jersey
More details to this question:
I received 5 traffic citations in NJ one of which is Reckless Driving and is very serious. I went to my first court hearing today and the Judge DID NOT read all the charges against me and DID NOT ask me to make a plea. When questioned he said he entered the plea on my behalf without even asking me what it was. The entire process seemed surreal and was unlike any other court hearing I've ever attended. Further more, all the other Defendant's had their charges read to them and were asked for a plea and if they understand and if they want to retain counsel, etc. Do I have recourse? Can these tickets be dismissed just on this basis alone?
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1 ANSWER

Criminal Defense Attorney serving Toms River, NJ at Edward J. Dimon
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you must face the charges against you in court. the failure to read all the charges will have no consequence. i would order 'discovery' and fight the charges if you are not guilty. please let us know if we can help. ed dimon, esq.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 11:32 AM

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