“defendant”
This page shows official legal definitions of “defendant” 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.
Australia
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A person who has been charged with a criminal offence.
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United States
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An individual (or business) against whom a lawsuit is filed.
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United States
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The party against whom the case is filed. The accused person or party; the person named as the wrongdoer in a criminal action.
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Ireland
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A person against whom an action is brought; a person charged with a criminal offence.
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New Zealand
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A person charged with a criminal offence.
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United States
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In a civil case, the person or organization against whom the plaintiff brings suit; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
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Canada
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A person accused in a criminal proceeding or sued in a civil proceeding.
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