Rule 8.070 - ARRAIGNMENTS(a)Appointment of Counsel. Prior to the adjudicatory hearing, the court may conduct a hearing to determine whether a guilty, nolo contendere, or not guilty plea to the petition shall be entered and whether the child is represented by counsel or entitled to appointed counsel as provided by law. Counsel shall be appointed if the child qualifies for such appointment and does not waive counsel in writing subject to the requirements of rule 8.165.(b) Plea. The reading or statement as to the charge or charges may be waived by the child. No child, whether represented by counsel or otherwise, shall be called on to plead unless and until he or she has had a reasonable time within which to deliberate thereon. If the child is represented by counsel, counsel may file a written plea of not guilty at or before arraignment and arraignment shall then be deemed waived. If a plea of guilty or nolo contendere is entered, the court shall proceed as set forth under rule 8.115, disposition hearings. If a plea of not guilty is entered, the court shall set an adjudicatory hearing within the period of time provided by law. The child is entitled to a reasonable time in which to prepare for trial.Amended effective 7/1/2023; amended by 115 So.3d 286, effective 7/1/2013; amended by 26 So.3d 552, effective 1/1/2010; amended by 783 So.2d 138, effective 1/1/2001; added by 589 So.2d 818, effective 7/1/1991; amended by 530 So.2d 920, effective 1/1/1989; amended by 462 So.2d 399, effective 1/1/1985; amended by 393 So.2d 1077, effective 1/1/1981.Committee Notes
1991 Adoption. This rule creates an arraignment proceeding that is referred to in section 985.215(7), Florida Statutes.