Security was tight as uniformed sheriff's deputies were stationed outside and deputies positioned on the roofs of both court buildings at the Arapahoe County Justice Center.
James Holmes' entrance was barely noticeable but relatives of shooting victims leaned forward in their seats to catch their first glimpse of him.
Some stared at him the entire hearing, including Tom Teves, the father of Alex Teves, who was killed in the shooting. Two women held hands tightly, one shaking her head.
Holmes was wide-eyed and unshaven as he sat, staring down for most of his court appearance. At times, he would close his eyes for a brief period as the judge advised him of his rights.
He will be formally charged on July 30 at 9:30 a.m.
The prosecution, comprised of Andrew Steers, Karen Pearson, Jacob Edson and Rich Orman, asked for an extended period of time to file formal charges.
The 24-year-old was assigned public defenders Daniel King and Tamara Brady.
According to authorities, he is no longer cooperating with police.
"He's not talking to us," the Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates said.
When police arrested Holmes he called himself the 'Joker' - the villain from the Batman movies.
Investigators say they found a Batman mask inside Holmes' booby-trapped apartment after the attack.
Holmes will remain at the Arapahoe County Jail where he is being held without bond. He also remains in solitary confinement.
A gag order was issued in the case.
Prosecutors may consider the death penalty, but will make that decision after consulting with victim's families. The decision could take months.
TWITTER RESPONSE: Viewers describe theater shooting suspect's face in court appearance
(KUSA-TV © 2012 Multimedia Holdings Corporation with The Associated Press)