 In the state of Florida, when you get arrested, you won't automatically have a court date. What will happen is the state of Florida will investigate the charges. If they decide to bring formal charges against you, that's when your case will be set for an arraignment. Now, if you hire a private attorney, you will not have to go to your arraignment. That's the best part of having someone on your side. If you do need to go to your arraignment, you will be told the formal charges that are against you and the opportunity will be given to either have the public defender's office appointed or give you time to have counsel. Carlson Meisner, Hart and Hazelett, protecting your rights since 1971.