At the formal arraignment, the defendant enters a plea, requests a judge or jury trial and a tentative court date is scheduled. You cannot attend the arraignment as this is for the defendant and the victims are not allowed.

What occurs during arraignment?

An arraignment is typically the first court proceeding in a criminal case. At the arraignment hearing, defendants are advised of the charges that have been filed as well as their legal and constitutional rights. Afterward, they are given an opportunity to enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.

Does indictment come before arraignment?

Arraignment -- After an Indictment or Information has been filed and arrest has been made, an Arraignment must take place before a Magistrate Judge. During an Arraignment, the accused, now called the defendant, is read the charges against him or her and advised of his or her rights.