What does "arraignment" refer to in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure?

Arraignment refers specifically to the formal presentation of charges to a defendant in a criminal case. During this stage, the defendant is informed of the charges against them, and they are given the opportunity to enter a plea—such as guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is a crucial step in the criminal justice process as it ensures that the defendant is aware of the specific allegations they face.

In the context of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, arraignment serves to protect the defendant's rights by ensuring they understand the nature of the charges and can make informed decisions about how to proceed. It marks the beginning of the judicial process and prepares the way for subsequent proceedings, such as preliminary hearings or a trial.

The other options do not accurately describe the purpose of arraignment. For instance, sentencing occurs later in the process, following a guilty plea or conviction. Jury selection is a separate phase that happens during a trial, and gathering evidence is part of the investigation process preceding formal charges. Thus, the selection of the definition regarding arraignment as the presentation of charges to a defendant captures its essential function within criminal proceedings.