What is an arraignment? An arraignment is a court proceeding in which a person who has been charged with a crime is formally informed of the charges against them and is typically asked to enter a plea, such as guilty, not guilty, or no contest, depending on the jurisdiction. The court may also address matters such as bail, release conditions, and future court dates. An arraignment is generally an early stage of a criminal case and is different from a trial, where evidence is presented and the defendant’s guilt or innocence is determined. The exact procedures and timing of an arraignment can vary by state and the circumstances of the case.