If there is a complaint in your case, the court should make sure you have a copy of it. The court will also want to make sure you understand what the charges are against you and give you a chance to hire your own lawyer or apply for the public defender. But if held, the hearing is meant to advise you of your rights for a second time. Some counties will not hold a Rule 8 Hearing unless you specifically request one. A Rule 8 Hearing is generally the second court appearance in Felony and Gross Misdemeanor cases.
