What is the purpose of an arraignment in the judicial process?

The purpose of an arraignment in the judicial process is to formally read the charges to the defendant. This is a critical step in ensuring that the defendant understands the nature of the accusations against them. During the arraignment, the defendant is informed of their rights and is given the opportunity to enter a plea, such as guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This phase is essential as it sets the stage for the subsequent legal proceedings, allowing the defendant to prepare their defense in light of the charges clearly laid out by the court.

Options concerning the dismissal of charges, introducing witnesses, or issuing a verdict pertain to different stages of the legal process, such as pre-trial motions, trial proceedings, or sentencing, and not specifically to the arraignment itself.