What does "arraignment" involve in criminal procedure?

Arraignment is a critical stage in the criminal procedure where the defendant is formally charged with a crime. During this process, the charges against the defendant are read in open court, ensuring that the defendant understands the specific accusations being made. Following the reading of charges, the defendant is required to enter a plea, typically one of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This moment is essential as it sets the course for the legal proceedings that will follow, such as the scheduling of future court dates or discussions regarding bail.

The focus of the arraignment is strictly on informing the defendant of the charges and obtaining their plea, rather than engaging in discussions about the case, presenting evidence, or conducting any witness testimonies. This distinct function highlights the procedural nature of the arraignment compared to other court activities, which involve more extensive legal discussions or displays of evidence.