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Arraigned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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arraigned

[əˈreɪnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To be arraigned means to be formally charged with a criminal offense and to be asked to enter a plea. This process is a crucial step in the judicial system, taking place after an arrest and before a trial. During an arraignment, defendants are informed of the charges against them, and their rights are explained. They typically have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If the defendant pleads not guilty, the case will move forward to trial.

Synonyms

charged, summoned.

Examples of usage

  • The defendant was arraigned in front of the judge.
  • After being arrested, she was arraigned the next morning.
  • During the arraignment, he pleaded not guilty to the charges.
  • Arrainments are usually short and straightforward proceedings.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Process

  • The arraignment is a crucial step in judicial proceedings where a defendant is formally presented with charges.
  • During the arraignment, the accused typically enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
  • In many jurisdictions, it's the first time the defendant appears before a judge after being arrested.

Historical Origins

  • The term 'arraign' comes from the Old French word 'arenier' meaning 'to call to account'.
  • Its use in English can be traced back to the late 14th century, reflecting the early formalization of legal practices.
  • Historically, arraignments were documented in 'writs', formal written orders that instructed courts to proceed with a case.

Cultural Representation

  • Arraignments often feature in crime drama television shows and movies, depicting tense courtroom scenes.
  • The arraignment process can vary significantly across cultures, with different legal traditions influencing its formality.
  • In artistic representations, such as literature and films, arraignments symbolize the balance of justice and morality.

Psychology

  • Facing an arraignment can provoke intense psychological stress, impacting a defendant's mental state.
  • Research indicates that the way defendants perceive their treatment during arraignments can influence their subsequent behavior in court.
  • The anticipation of an arraignment often influences a defendant's choice of legal representation and strategy.

Media and Reporting

  • Media coverage of high-profile arraignments often shapes public perception of justice and accountability.
  • Arraignments can be significant news events, drawing attention from the public and media for the cases they involve.
  • Journalists often focus on the arraignment as a pivotal moment, marking the beginning of legal proceedings in notable cases.

Origin of 'arraigned'

The word 'arraigned' originates from the Old French term 'arainer', which means 'to call to account', and traces back to the Latin 'adrenare', meaning 'to bring to judgment'. It entered English in the late Middle Ages, around the 15th century, as the legal system began to formalize processes for dealing with criminal accusations. Historically, the arraignment process was implemented to ensure that individuals accused of crimes were aware of their charges and had an opportunity to respond to them. Its use has been pivotal in the development of fair trial rights, reflecting the evolution of legal systems that prioritize due process and justice.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,733, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.