What does the arraignment entail?

The correct choice relates to the process of arraignment, which is a critical step in the criminal justice system. During an arraignment, the court formally reads the charges against the defendant. This reading provides the individual with a clear understanding of the allegations they are facing, which is a fundamental aspect of ensuring that the defendant is aware of their rights and the nature of the accusations.

This step is essential for due process, as it marks the beginning of the legal proceedings where the accused can enter a plea—such as guilty, not guilty, or no contest—regarding the charges presented.

In contrast, the other aspects mentioned, such as the presentation of evidence, often occur later in the trial process rather than at the arraignment. Issuing a plea deal and a trial by jury are also part of the legal process but occur at different stages, following the arraignment. This distinctly highlights the importance of the arraignment stage as the formal introduction of the charges, setting the stage for the upcoming legal actions.