Initial Court Proceedings in County Court (Felonies)

Initial Court Proceedings in County Court (Felonies)

(See: Adult Felony Process Flowchart)

Bond setting

The procedure is the same as stated above, although arraignment and bond setting may occur at single appearance. 

Preliminary Hearing

In felony cases only, a defendant has a right to a preliminary hearing in county court where the state presents evidence and a judge determines whether the evidence shows probable cause that the crime charged has been committed, and that the defendant committed the crime. Often these hearings are waived by a defendant in exchange for reports from the prosecutor. 

If a hearing is held and probable cause is found, the defendant is bound over (ordered to appear) in district court for arraignment. If not, the charge will be dismissed. But the state can refile it. Probable cause must be determined for each crime charged. So probable cause could be found for one count and not another.