Arraignment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚖️
arraignment
[əˈreɪn.mənt ]
Definition
legal procedure
An arraignment is a preliminary court proceeding in which a person who has been accused of a crime is formally read the charges against them. During this process, the defendant is informed of their rights, and they are asked to enter a plea, such as guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The arraignment marks the first step in the criminal prosecution process and is usually held shortly after the accused has been arrested. It serves to protect the rights of the accused and ensure they are aware of the legal proceedings they will face.
Synonyms
charge reading, proceeding.
Examples of usage
- The defendant appeared in court for his arraignment.
- During the arraignment, she pleaded not guilty.
- The judge scheduled the arraignment for next week.
- Legal counsel was present during the arraignment.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Significance
- An arraignment is typically the first step in the criminal process after someone is arrested, ensuring defendants know their charges.
- During this process, defendants can enter a plea – guilty, not guilty, or no contest, which can significantly affect their case.
- It allows the court to set bail conditions or decide if the defendant can be released while waiting for the trial.
Cultural Reference
- In many movies and TV shows, the arraignment scene is pivotal, often highlighting the tension and drama of legal battles.
- Famous legal dramas frequently portray arraignments to demonstrate the procedural aspects of law, emphasizing the plight of defendants.
- Public perception of arraignments can be influenced by media portrayals, shaping how people view the justice system.
Comparative Law
- Different countries have varying practices for arraignment, such as the absence of a formal arraignment in some civil law jurisdictions.
- Some legal systems allow for immediate arraignment in cases of urgent nature, demonstrating diverse approaches to justice.
- In certain jurisdictions, defendants may face electronic arraignment through video conferencing, adapting to modern technology.
Psychological Impact
- Facing an arraignment can be a deeply stressful experience, triggering anxiety in defendants as they confront their legal situation.
- The event often sets the tone for the entire legal process, influencing how defendants prepare for their defense.
- Legal professionals note that arraignments can impact individuals differently, depending on their prior experience with the legal system.
Origin of 'arraignment'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old French 'arregnament', meaning 'to arrange', indicating putting things in order, particularly in legal contexts.
- It has roots in the Latin 'adregnare', which also means 'to bring before a court'.
- The term has evolved over centuries, becoming a standard part of legal proceedings in many English-speaking countries.
The term 'arraignment' dates back to Middle English, originating from the Old French word 'arrest', and can be traced further to the Latin word 'adrenare', meaning 'to bring before the court'. The concept of arraignment has deep roots in the legal systems of many Western countries, evolving through various legal traditions and documents. Historically, it established a crucial moment for the accused, ensuring that they were made aware of the allegations and had the opportunity to respond. The development of this legal procedure reflects the broader principles of due process and the rights of individuals within the judicial system, highlighting the importance of transparency and fairness in legal proceedings.