Understanding New York City Criminal Court Arraignments — And Why You Should Contact Matthew Galluzzo Immediately After an Arrest
For anyone arrested in New York City (excluding those who receive Desk Appearance Tickets), the first appearance in criminal court—known as the arraignment—is one of the most critical stages of the entire case. It happens quickly, often within 24 hours of arrest, and what occurs in that brief courtroom appearance can dramatically influence the course of the prosecution. Whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony, the arraignment is your first opportunity to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s assumptions, and make a strong first impression before a judge.
If you or a loved one has recently been arrested in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island, contacting a skilled defense attorney before the arraignment is essential. And few attorneys in New York City are as well-equipped to handle that moment as Matthew Galluzzo, a former Manhattan prosecutor and widely respected criminal defense lawyer with outstanding client reviews.
What Happens at a NYC Criminal Court Arraignment?
1. You Are Formally Informed of the Charges
The prosecutor presents the initial charges, which are detailed in a document called a complaint, an accusatory instrument. In cases involving misdemeanors, those documents may later be called “informations,” and in cases involving felonies, those documents may be replaced by indictments after evidence is presented to a grand jury.
2. Bail Arguments Take Center Stage
At arraignments, the judge must decide whether:
- you are released on your own recognizance (ROR),
- supervised release is required,
- bail is imposed, or
- you are remanded (held without bail) in more serious cases.
This decision can determine whether you go home immediately—or spend weeks or even months in jail while your case proceeds. Not all cases are bail eligible under New York’s current bail laws.
3. Your Attorney Advocates for Your Release
To secure your release at arraignments, defense counsel can present:
- personal background,
- employment and family ties,
- the weaknesses in the evidence,
- reasons why you are not a flight risk,
- and why you should be released.
A strong, knowledgeable attorney can dramatically change the outcome of this argument.
4. Orders of Protection and Other Conditions
If the case involves allegations of violence, harassment, or family-related offenses, the judge may issue a full or limited order of protection. Other conditions—such as drug testing, counseling, or stay-away orders—may also be imposed.
5. Your Attorney Begins Building the Defense from Hour One
An effective defense starts immediately at arraignment. Early intervention can:
- preserve evidence,
- identify police misconduct,
- challenge the legality of the arrest,
- prevent the case from escalating,
- and set the tone for negotiations or litigation.
Why the Attorney You Choose at Arraignment Matters
Many defendants mistakenly believe arraignment is a “simple” or “procedural” step. In reality, it is the strategic foundation of the entire case.
A strong arraignment attorney can:
- secure your release so you can fight your case from outside custody,
- push back against over-charging,
- identify immediate legal defects,
- shape the judge’s early perception of the case,
- and protect you from making statements or decisions that could harm your defense.
This is not the moment to rely on luck, a random attorney, or someone unfamiliar with NYC criminal courts.
Why You Should Call Matthew Galluzzo Immediately After an Arrest
A Former Manhattan Prosecutor Who Knows the System Inside and Out
Matthew Galluzzo spent years prosecuting serious felony cases in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, and has over twenty years of experience in the criminal court system. He understands exactly how prosecutors assess cases at arraignment and how to counter their arguments with precision and credibility.
Hundreds of Successful Arraignments Throughout All Five Boroughs
Whether the arrest occurred in Midtown, Harlem, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or elsewhere, he has appeared in every NYC criminal courthouse and knows how different judges, court parts, and boroughs operate.
Skilled in Securing Release and Preventing Unnecessary Bail
Because of his background and reputation, Galluzzo consistently achieves favorable bail outcomes—even in serious felony cases. His advocacy at arraignment routinely results in:
- Release on recognizance (ROR)
- Reduced or no bail
- Avoiding pretrial detention entirely
Immediate, Strategic Action
When brought into a case early, he can:
- reach out to prosecutors before arraignment,
- provide mitigating information,
- correct factual misunderstandings,
- gather and preserve key evidence,
- and prepare a targeted defense approach before you even see the judge.
Respected by Judges, Prosecutors, and Defense Attorneys Alike
Galluzzo’s courtroom skills and professionalism have earned him a reputation as an attorney whose arguments carry weight. That respect benefits his clients at arraignment—where credibility matters.
Personalized, Hands-On Representation
Clients arrested in NYC often feel frightened, confused, and overwhelmed. Galluzzo offers real communication, prompt availability, and meticulous attention to detail—qualities essential when the stakes are highest and the timeline is tight.
If You or a Loved One Has Been Arrested, Do Not Wait for Arraignment—Call Immediately
The arraignment is your first and best opportunity to steer your case in the right direction. The decisions made in that courtroom can influence whether you go home that night, how the prosecution treats your case, and how much leverage your attorney has moving forward.
If you have recently been arrested in New York City, contact Matthew Galluzzo immediately for rapid, strategic criminal defense representation.
Your future, freedom, and reputation deserve nothing less.