What is the difference between indictment and arraignment?

In Louisiana, the two key terms relating to a court proceeding are indictment and arraignment. A grand jury indictment is essentially a written accusation supporting the charge of a crime. The grand jury evaluates evidence presented to them by the prosecutor and decides whether to indict the accused or not. They can also issue no-bills, meaning the accused will not be charged with a crime. An arraignment is the part of the court proceedings where the accused person is officially informed of the charges against them. The accused will answer to the charges in court and will be given the opportunity to enter a plea. When the accused pleads “not guilty,” a trial date will be set. If they choose to plead guilty, the court could proceed to sentencing the accused. In short, an indictment is the written accusation of a crime while an arraignment is when the accused officially answers the charges in court. An indictment is a grand jury’s decision while an arraignment is the part of the court proceedings where the charges are read, the defendant enters a plea, and the court may proceed to sentencing.

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What is the difference between indictment and arraignment?

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