Arraign Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Arraign.

Arraign (verb): This is a legal term referring to the process in court in which a defendant is formally charged with a crime, typically through a document called an indictment or information. The defendant is asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This procedure, different from advertising by attorneys, is integral to the criminal justice system, ensuring that defendants understand the charges against them and their rights. It usually occurs near the beginning of the court process, after an arrest and initial charges have been filed.