See Also: Arraignment(law)

Arraignment (law)



A proceeding in which an individual who is accused of committing a crime is brought into court, told of the charges, and asked to plead guilty or not guilty. Sometimes called a preliminary hearing or initial appearance.









Others:






The hearing at which the accused is brought before the court to plead to the criminal charge in the indictment. He may plead guilty, not guilty, or where permitted nolo contendere. (See preliminary hearing.)







Others:


The initial appearance before a judge in a criminal case. At an arraignment, the charges against the defendant are read, a lawyer is appointed if the defendant cannot afford one, and the defendants plea is entered.







Others:


The first phase of a criminal proceeding in which the accused appears before a judge to hear charges against him/her and to enter a plea, appoint a counsel, and to have a bail reviewed and set.







Others:


A proceeding in which an individual who is accused of committing a crime is brought into court, told of the charges, and asked to plead guilty or not guilty.

Others:


I. Strictly, the hearing before a court having jurisdiction in a criminal case, in which the identity of the defendant is established, the defendant is informed of the charge(s) and of his or her rights, and the defendant is required to enter a plea. II. In some usages, any appearance in court prior to trial in criminal proceedings.