This refers to the court appearance in which the defendant is formally charged with a crime and must enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or nolo contendere. Typically this deals with three steps (1) identification of the defendant, (2) reading of the charges so that the defendant understands the charges, and (3) a plea entered by the defendant. Several matters can be handled at the arraignment including appointing a lawyer should the defendant request and need an attorney as well as setting the amount of the defendant’s bail.
Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition
In criminal practice. Calling the defendant to the bar of the court, to answer the accusation contained in the indictment.