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Chris Brown Appears in Court, Arraignment Postponed

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Shortly after Chris Brown arrived in an L.A. courthouse for his arraignment on Thursday to face two felony charges in connection with an alleged February 8 attack on Rihanna, further proceedings were postponed until April 6.

He did not enter a plea.

During the short session at the L.A. Superior Court, Brown signed a waiver stating that he understood that his attorney, Mark Geragos, would be appearing for him when the arraignment continues in four weeks.

The singer - wearing a gray suit with a light gray tie and matching vest - stepped out of a black SUV Escalade 3:30 p.m. PST before entering the building.

Chris Brown in Court

Meanwhile, attorney Donald Etra was representing Rihanna, who did not appear at the arraignment, and he said that she asked him to attend on her behalf.

"The victim is entitled to be represented at all proceedings," he said.

The court commissioner, Kristi Loustau, offered a "Level 1" protective order for Rihanna, which is the lowest level of a stay-away order for the victim.

"You are not to annoy, harass, molest or use any form of violence against anyone," Loustau told a solemn Chris Brown during the court hearing.

More news and Chris Brown photos after the jump ...

Although Etra said Rihanna requested no form of a restraining order against Brown, he added: "This is more than efficient to protect her in this case."

Brown, who was described as somber and slightly dazed during the brief hearing, said only a few words throughout, including "Yes, your honor."

After court, Etra said that Rihanna "wanted to convey her appreciation to the friends, followers and family" that have supported her. Asked about the couple getting back together, Etra said "this is not the time to discuss that."

Brown is facing assault by means likely to create great bodily injury and criminal threats. If convicted, he faces four years and eight months in prison.

Legal experts say that because Rihanna did not request a stay-away order, it does suggest she doesn't necessarily want Chris Brown to stay away.

Some believe that if Rihanna refuses to testify against him, his case will likely not go to trial, although other law enforcement sources say otherwise.


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