ARRAIGNMENT Meaning and
Definition
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Arraignment is a legal proceeding that occurs in criminal cases, serving as a critical step in the formal initiation of a criminal trial. During an arraignment, the defendant is brought before a court to be formally informed of the charges against them and to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
In an arraignment, the judge reads the charges against the defendant, ensuring that they understand the nature and seriousness of the allegations. The defendant is then asked to enter a plea, which can be guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If the defendant pleads guilty or no contest, the judge proceeds to determine an appropriate sentence. On the other hand, if the defendant pleads not guilty, the case proceeds to trial.
Arraignments have several purposes. First, the defendant is made aware of the charges, giving them the opportunity to seek legal representation and prepare a defense. Secondly, the court determines whether the defendant understands their rights and the charges against them. Additionally, an arraignment helps ensure that the proceedings are conducted fairly and in accordance with the law.
Arraignments are typically held within a few days after an arrest, allowing the court to promptly address the charges. They play a crucial role in the criminal justice process, preserving the defendant's right to due process, and marking the entry into the formal legal proceedings.
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The act of setting a prisoner before a court.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for ARRAIGNMENT
Etymology of ARRAIGNMENT
The word "arraignment" originated from Middle English and has its roots in Old French.
It is derived from the Old French word "arraigner" which means "to call to account" or "to charge". This word, in turn, comes from the Late Latin word "adratiare" meaning "to summon or call upon".
The term "arraignment" entered Middle English around the 14th century, maintaining its original meaning of a legal proceeding where an individual is called before a court to answer charges. Over time, the word has retained its meaning in modern legal systems as a formal reading of charges and obtaining a plea from the accused.
Similar spelling word for ARRAIGNMENT
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