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.

Committee Notes
1991 Adoption. This rule creates an arraignment proceeding
that is referred to in section 985.215(7), Florida Statutes.