Your First Court Appearance: What to Expect in Worcester County District Court

If you’ve recently been charged with a criminal or traffic offense in Worcester County, Maryland you’re likely feeling stressed and uncertain about what happens next. That first court date, also called an Initial Appearance or Arraignment, can feel intimidating if you’ve never been inside a courtroom before. The good news is: it’s usually much simpler than you might think.

I’ve represented individuals in Worcester County for more than 32 years, and I want to walk you through exactly what you can expect so you can walk in informed, calmer, and prepared.

Where Your Hearing Will Take Place

Most first appearances take place at the Worcester County District Court, located in Snow Hill, Maryland. If your case occurred in Ocean City, Berlin, West Ocean City, Pocomoke, or surrounding areas, it still typically goes through this courthouse.

Arrive 15–20 minutes early to:

• Park

• Go through security

• Locate your courtroom

Showing up late can result in a failure to appear, which may lead to a warrant. So treat the time seriously.

What This Hearing Is (and What It’s Not)

Your first court appearance is:

• A chance to hear the charges against you

• An opportunity to confirm your mailing address

• Where the court confirms whether you have or need an attorney

Your first appearance is not:

• The trial

• Where guilt or innocence is decided

• The final outcome of your case

Most people are relieved to learn that you won’t be asked to argue your case or tell your side of the story at this stage.

This is simply the court setting the foundation.

What to Expect Step-by-Step

1. Check In. When you arrive, check in with the courtroom clerk or bailiff. They’ll mark you as present.

2. Courtroom Etiquette Basics

• Silence your phone

• Remove hats

• Sit quietly until your name is called

If you’re unsure where to sit, just choose a seat in the audience. You don’t sit at the front unless your case is being addressed.

3. When your name is called, you will approach the bench.

The judge will:

• Confirm your name

• Explain your charges in plain language

• Inform you of your rights

• Discuss representation

If you already have an attorney, they’ll stand with you and do most of the talking.

If you do not yet have counsel, you will typically be given:

• Information about hiring an attorney, or

• Information about the Public Defender’s Office (if eligible)

You will not be pressured to make legal arguments.

4. Setting the Next Date

The judge will schedule:

• Your trial date, or

• A pretrial conference (depending on the charge)

You’ll receive this date in writing before you leave.

What to Wear

You do not need a suit, but aim for:

• Clean

• Neat

• Neutral clothing

Something you’d wear to a work meeting or church is perfect.

You’re not trying to impress — just to show respect.

How I Help Clients Prepare

When I represent someone, I make sure they walk into court:

• Knowing exactly what to expect

• Knowing exactly what to say (and what not to)

• Fully aware of their upcoming timeline

A calm, informed person always does better in court.

The Most Important Thing to Remember

Your first appearance is not the end of your case.

It’s simply the beginning.

You are not alone in this process, and you do not have to try to figure it out on your own.

If You Need Guidance, I’m Here to Help

If you or a loved one has a court date scheduled in Worcester County, let’s talk before you walk in.

Frank Benvenuto, P.A.

DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney

Serving Ocean City and Worcester County Maryland for 32+ years

443-783-2451

www.ocmdlawyer.