What is the meaning of "arraignment"?

Arraignment refers to the initial court appearance of the defendant in a criminal case where they are formally presented with the charges against them. During this proceeding, the defendant is informed of their rights, understands the specifics of the charges, and is given the opportunity to enter a plea—whether guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This crucial step is essential in the legal process as it ensures that the accused is aware of the allegations and the potential consequences they face.

The other options represent different legal concepts. For instance, examining evidence before a trial relates more to pretrial procedures rather than the arraignment itself. A formal request for a new trial does not occur during an arraignment but is a separate motion that may happen after a trial concludes. Lastly, while negotiation phases occur in the context of plea bargaining, which may happen after arraignment, they do not define the purpose or meaning of arraignment itself.