Which statement best describes arraignment?

• A. Arraignment occurs before the trial and involves identifying the defendant, explaining the charge, and requesting a plea.
• B. Arraignment occurs after sentencing.
• C. Arraignment is only for civil cases.
• D. Arraignment is the process by which a verdict is reached.

Answer: (B)

Arraignment is the initial court appearance in a criminal case where the defendant is formally informed of the charges, reminded of rights, and asked to enter a plea. It happens before any trial and often sets bail or conditions of release. This step focuses on notifying the defendant of what they’re charged with and obtaining a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest), not on deciding guilt or determining sentencing.

The other statements don’t fit because arraignment comes before trial, not after sentencing; it applies to criminal cases, not civil ones; and it is not the process by which a verdict is reached—that happens during the trial after evidence is presented.