What is typically the focus during an arraignment?

During an arraignment, the primary focus is on reading the charges to the defendant. This crucial step in the legal process ensures that the accused is formally informed of the specific allegations against them. The arraignment serves as the opportunity for the defendant to understand the nature of the charges and to enter a plea, which could be guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

While determining guilt or innocence and reviewing evidence are significant components of the broader judicial process, they do not take place at the arraignment itself. Moreover, scheduling future court dates may occur during the arraignment, but it is secondary to the main purpose of informing the defendant about the charges. Thus, emphasizing the reading of charges captures the essence and primary goal of the arraignment stage in a criminal proceeding.