Final answer:
The arraignment is the phase of the criminal justice process where a felony defendant is formally accused and enters a plea. Plea bargaining often occurs before this stage, which can lead to the defendant pleading guilty to a lesser charge. If no plea is made, the process continues to jury selection and trial.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the phase of the criminal justice process known as the arraignment, the felony defendant is formally accused of a crime and is called upon to enter a plea. This is the stage at which the defendant is informed of the charges against them, advised of their right to counsel, and must make a decision to either plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest to the charges. In some instances, a plea bargain may be offered and negotiated before this stage, allowing the defendant to plead guilty to a lesser charge with a possibly lighter sentence.
Plea bargaining plays a crucial role in the criminal justice process by potentially avoiding a full trial. Defendants might choose to accept plea bargains for various reasons, including overwhelming evidence against them, the possibility of receiving a lighter sentence than if convicted at trial, or the opportunity to provide testimony against others in exchange for leniency. It is also beneficial for prosecutors who can secure convictions efficiently.
However, if a plea agreement is not reached, the process moves on to jury selection and eventual trial. The Fifth Amendment, among others, ensures due process and the rights of the accused throughout the criminal justice process, including the right to an indictment, trial, and to be informed of all charges.