First Appearance Court in Orlando, FL
At first appearance court, individuals arrested the day before who have not yet bonded out of jail, appear for an advisory hearing. The court typically advises the group, either in person or by video, of the purpose of the hearing. The purpose of the first appearance in Orange County, FL, is to determine probable cause, determine the conditions of release, appoint counsel if appropriate, and advise the defendant of the right to remain silent.
Orange County, FL, has a pretrial release office and staff who assist the judge by doing a pretrial interview, obtaining personal and employment information from the defendant, and running a criminal history check.
At the hearing, the defendant is advised of the following:
- the pending charges as listed on the criminal report affidavit or arrest warrant;
- the right to remain silent and that anything said may be used against them;
- the right to have counsel or to a continuance so that counsel can be consulted;
- the right to an opportunity to communicate with family and friends.
The judge will take the following action during the hearing:
- listen to the arguments of any private attorney representing the defendant;
- appoint counsel if appropriate;
- obtain written waiver of counsel where appropriate;
- determine whether probable cause supports each charge;
- determine, announce, and explain conditions of pretrial release.
