What does it mean to read the charge of an indictment?

Reading the charge of an indictment refers to the formal process in which the specific allegations against a defendant are presented in a court setting, typically during an arraignment. This is an essential step in the criminal justice process, as it ensures that the defendant is informed of the nature of the accusations, allowing them to understand the charges being brought against them and to prepare a defense appropriately.

During the arraignment, the court will read the charges aloud, and the defendant will usually be asked to enter a plea, such as guilty or not guilty. This process is crucial as it upholds the defendant's right to be informed of the charges, a fundamental principle in law.

The other options involve different stages or procedures in the legal process. Presenting evidence occurs later during the trial, sentencing happens after a conviction, and dismissing charges is a separate action that can occur under specific circumstances but does not involve reading the indictment.