What to expect at First Appearance for someone arrested in Okaloosa County

First Appearance is the initial court hearing after an arrest. In Okaloosa County, it typically happens within 24 hours for anyone still in custody. The hearing is usually conducted by video - your loved one appears from the jail rather than being transported to a courtroom.

Okaloosa County brings people before a judge within 24 hours of arrest if they're still in custody. The hearing moves fast and feels procedural - that's normal. Your loved one will appear by video from the jail, not in a courtroom.

At First Appearance, the judge covers the basics. They'll review the arrest information and explain the defendant's rights - making sure your loved one understands what's happening as the case moves forward.

This is also when legal counsel gets addressed. If the defendant requests an attorney and qualifies financially, the judge may appoint one at this hearing.

• ✓ Review the arrest information
• ✓ Advise the defendant of their rights
• ✓ Consider a request for an attorney and appoint legal counsel if the defendant qualifies

First Appearance isn't optional for someone in custody. When staff instructs them to appear, they need to go - even if they're exhausted, stressed, or confused about what's happening.

Set your expectations: this hearing is brief and done by video. The judge reviews the arrest information, explains your loved one's rights, and may appoint an attorney if requested and they qualify. It can feel like nothing much happened, but it's a key early step that gets the case moving.

• ✓ Expect a short, procedural hearing that’s primarily conducted by video
• ✓ Expect the judge to review arrest information and advise your loved one of their rights
• ✓ Expect attorney appointment to be addressed if your loved one requests counsel and qualifies