Upon making his appearance before the court, the defendant shall be arraigned. The judge, or the attorney of the city, shall read the complaint to the defendant, inform him of his legal rights, including the right of trial by jury, if available, and of the consequences of conviction, and ask him whether he pleads guilty or not guilty. If the defendant pleads guilty, the court may proceed to judgment and sentence or may continue the matter for subsequent disposition. If the plea is not guilty, and the case is not for jury trial, the court may proceed to try the case, or may set it for hearing at a later date. (2000 Code § 6-127)