O.C.G.A. § 17-7-94: Recordation and effect of plea of “not guilty” or of standing mute.

If the person accused of committing a crime, upon being arraigned, pleads “not guilty” or stands mute, the clerk shall immediately record upon the minutes of the court the plea of “not guilty,” together with the arraignment; and the arraignment and plea shall constitute the issue between the accused and the state.