WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE YOU GO Your First Day in Court
It’s perfectly natural to feel nervous ahead of your first court appearance, especially if it’s a process you’ve never gone through before. However, those nerves are often there because people expect something very different from what usually happens. In Texas, the first hearing after an arrest is typically a magistrate appearance. State law requires that an arrested person be taken before a magistrate without unnecessary delay, and no later than 48 hours after the arrest. At that hearing, the court advises the person of the accusation, explains important rights, addresses the right to request appointed counsel if the person can’t afford a lawyer, and may address bond. Many people assume this hearing is an arraignment. That isn’t always true. An arraignment is a separate step in some cases, and it can be
waived in certain situations. Knowing which hearing you’re facing takes a lot of the stress out of it. It also helps to know that the first court date usually sets the schedule rather than the outcome. Following the initial magistrate appearance, the case usually moves to a separate court setting. The focus here is practical. The judge may confirm the charge, address whether the person has a lawyer, and set the case for another date. Bond conditions can also come up again, especially if there are questions about compliance or requests for changes. What typically does not happen at that stage is a full airing of the facts. People sometimes walk in expecting to explain everything and walk out with the case behind them. Most of the time, that’s not how it works. They may feel brief and a bit procedural, but it’s always important to take these early hearings seriously. Be prepared to show up on time and dress appropriately for the situation. Follow all bond conditions, and don’t miss court. Just as important, don’t try to talk your way out of the case in the hallway or in front of the judge. Remember, a lot can turn on these early appearances. The more prepared you are going in, the easier it is to avoid mistakes that only make things harder later.
Flank Steak Tacos
Ingredients • 1 tsp paprika
• 1 lb flank steak • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided • 1 small red onion, finely diced • 1/3 cup cilantro • 1 ripe avocado, diced • 1 tbsp lime juice • 8 small flour tortillas
Directions 1. Heat grill to medium heat. • 1/2 tsp ground cumin • 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp chili powder • 1/2 tsp dried oregano • 1/4 tsp onion powder • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper • 1 tsp sea salt, divided
2. In a small bowl, combine first 7 seasoning ingredients with 1/2 tsp sea salt. 3. Brush steak with 1 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle seasoning mixture on both sides. 4. Grill steak for 2–4 minutes per side. 5. Remove steak from grill and let it rest. 6. In a bowl, stir together 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1 tbsp olive oil, onion, cilantro, avocado, and lime juice. 7. Heat flour tortillas on the grill. 8. Slice the grilled flank steak into 1/4-inch strips. Assemble your tacos and enjoy!
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