The arraignment process is a crucial step in criminal proceedings where the defendant is formally informed of the charges and enters a plea. This typically occurs within 48 to 72 hours of an arrest, depending on state laws. In felony cases, it may be delayed until after a grand jury indictment. During the arraignment, the defendant appears in court either in person or via video and if they don’t have any attorney, the court appoints one.

At this stage, the judge reads the formal charges, and the defendant is given a copy of the complaint or indictment. The defendant then enters a plea guilty, not guilty, or no contest (not contendere). In most cases, a “not guilty” plea is entered to allow time for case preparation. The judge may also determine bail, considering factors like the severity of the crime and risk of flight. Bail can range from release on recognizance to a high monetary amount for serious offenses.

The court will also schedule future hearings, including pretrial conferences and trial dates. At this stage the judge does not review evidence or determine guilt, the focus is on procedural matters. Defendants are also informed on their rights, including the right to an attorney and protection against self-incrimination.

For example if someone is charged with theft, the judge will read the charges, the defendant may plead not guilty, and bail may be set at $5,00 on their clean record. A pretrial hearing will then scheduled. The arraignment sets the legal process in motion, leading discovery, pretrial motions, and trial preparation.