An initial step in the criminal process wherein the defendant is formally charged with an offense, i.e., given a copy of the complaint or other accusatory instrument, and informed of his or her constitutional rights (e.g., to plead not guilty, be indicted, have a jury trial, be appointed counsel if indigent, etc.). Where the appearance is shortly after the arrest it may properly be called a presentment since no plea is taken, at least not if it is a felony charge. If it is called an arraignment, it is termed an arraignment on the warrant [or on the complaint].
"After the indictment or information is filed, the defendant is arraigned-i.e., he or she is brought before the trial court, and informed of the charges and the pleas that might be entered (usuallyguilty, not guilty or nolo contendere)." Kamisar, LaFave & Israel, Modern Criminal Procedure 23 (9th ed. 1999).