Colorado § 16-7-203 - Irregularity of arraignment.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 16-7-203 — Irregularity of arraignment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-7-203. Irregularity of arraignment.
No irregularity in the arraignment which does not affect the substantial rights of the defendant shall affect the validity of any proceeding in the cause if the defendant pleads to the charge or proceeds to trial without objecting to the irregularity.
Source: L. 72: R&RE, p. 221, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 39-7-203.
ANNOTATION
Arraignment procedures are designed primarily to protect the defendant. Harrington v. District Court, 192 Colo. 351, 559 P.2d 225 (1977).
Representation by nonresident counsel does not nullify arraignment. Where an attorney from a sister state is admitted to the bar of Colorado for the purpose of representing a defendant in a trial for murder in the first degree, the fact that such counsel does not have an associate resident counsel with him in the case does not nullify the arraignment of defendant or his plea of not guilty. Martinez v. People, 134 Colo. 82, 299 P.2d 510 (1956) (decided under repealed § 39-7-9, CRS 53).
Elements of arraignment not ritual from which court cannot deviate. While the statutes and rules prescribe the necessary elements of an arraignment, this section makes it clear that they have not created a ritual from which a court cannot deviate. People v. Adargo, 622 P.2d 593 (Colo. App. 1980).
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 16-7-203
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 16-7-203 cover?
Section 16-7-203 ("Irregularity of arraignment.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 16-7-203?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 16-7-203" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 16-7-203 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.