Legal Definitions - arraignment

An arraignment is a fundamental initial step in a criminal case where a person accused of a crime formally appears before a judge. During this court hearing, the judge officially informs the defendant of the specific charges they are facing. The defendant is then given the opportunity to enter a plea, such as "guilty," "not guilty," or "no contest," which formally begins their defense in the legal process.

• Example 1: Misdemeanor Traffic Offense

  After being issued a citation for reckless driving, Mark receives a notice to appear in court for his arraignment. At the hearing, the judge reads the specific charge of reckless driving, and Mark, after consulting with a public defender, formally enters a plea of "not guilty." This sets the stage for future court dates where evidence will be presented.

  This example demonstrates an arraignment as Mark's first official court appearance where he is informed of the precise charge against him and makes his initial formal response (a plea) to the court.

• Example 2: Felony Drug Charge

  Following an arrest and indictment by a grand jury for felony drug possession with intent to distribute, Sarah is brought before a judge for her arraignment. The judge confirms that Sarah understands the serious nature of the charges outlined in the indictment and then asks her to enter a plea. Sarah's attorney advises her to plead "not guilty," and the judge also addresses the conditions for her bail.

  Here, the arraignment serves as the critical moment for Sarah to formally acknowledge the felony charges and declare her initial response (plea) to the court, while also addressing immediate concerns like bail.

• Example 3: Federal White-Collar Crime

  Mr. Henderson, an executive, is indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of wire fraud. His first appearance in federal court is his arraignment. During this proceeding, the federal judge ensures Mr. Henderson has legal representation, formally reads the specific counts of wire fraud from the indictment, and then asks him to enter a plea. Mr. Henderson's attorney enters a plea of "not guilty" on his behalf.

  This illustrates an arraignment in a federal context, showing it as the formal event where an accused individual is officially notified of serious charges and enters their initial plea, regardless of the complexity or jurisdiction of the crime.