“Charge”

This page shows official legal definitions of “Charge” from courts and ministries of justice in multiple countries. Definitions are listed in order of reading level to help with both basic understanding and deeper context.

Jurisdiction: New Zealand New Zealand

A formal statement (usually by a Police officer) that a person is accused of having committed an offence.

Source: Glossary of Legal Terms, New Zealand Ministry of Justice
Jurisdiction: Canada Canada

A formal accusation of an offence as a preliminary step to prosecution.

Source: Glossary of Legal Terms - Legal Aid Program Evaluation, Department of Justice Canada