Initial Appearance

Question: What is an "Initial Appearance" and what typically occurs at one?

Response: An "Initial Appearance" is typically the first court date in the criminal process. An Initial Appearance has two general purposes:

1. Provide you with the "Criminal Complaint". (The Criminal Complaint is a brief description of the facts which allow the State to charge you with the crime.)
2. Conduct a Bond Hearing. The Court must determine whether and under what conditions you can released into the community while the criminal process is pending. The Court can release you on your sworn promise to return (called a "Signature Bond") or it might require you to post money as collateral for your continued appearance.

In some counties (Dane County for example) an attorney can attend this hearing for you if you are charged with a misdemeanor.

If you have further questions regarding this process, please contact our office at 608-255-9491.