What is the common law definition of arraignment?

The common law definition of arraignment refers specifically to the formal reading of a criminal complaint in the presence of a defendant. This process serves several important functions in the judicial system. First, it ensures that the defendant is informed of the charges against them, which is a fundamental aspect of the right to a fair trial. By being present during the reading of the complaint, the defendant has the opportunity to understand the nature of the accusations and prepare a defense.

Additionally, the arraignment often allows the defendant to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest—which signals how they intend to respond to the charges. This formal setting, with the charges read in the presence of the defendant, helps establish the legal framework for the proceedings ahead.

In contrast, the other choices involve procedural elements that do not align with the specific definition of arraignment. For instance, preliminary hearings primarily focus on evidence and bail considerations but do not involve the formal reading of charges to the defendant as the arraignment does. Similarly, presenting evidence to a jury and discussing bail conditions are subsequent steps within the legal process but are not inherent features of the arraignment itself.