Defendant

/dɪˈfɛndənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person accused of a crime in a court of law.

The defendant stood nervously as the charges were read aloud.

In a civil case, the party being accused or sued.

The defendant in the lawsuit argued that the claims were unfounded.

An individual who is required to answer a complaint or charge in legal proceedings.

The defendant submitted a motion to dismiss the case on procedural grounds.

From Middle English 'defendand,' from Old French 'defendant,' present participle of 'defendre,' from Latin 'defendere.'

beyond a reasonable doubt

The standard of evidence required to validate a criminal conviction.

innocent until proven guilty

A legal principle that presumes a person is innocent until evidence proves otherwise.

in the dock

In the place where the defendant stands during a trial.

plaintiff

A person who brings a case against another in a court of law.

litigation

The process of taking legal action.

Defender

In court, the defendant often relies on their defender for guidance.