What is the definition of a criminal charge?

A criminal charge is specifically defined as an accusation made by law enforcement that a person has committed a crime. This formal assertion initiates legal proceedings against the individual and outlines the specific offense they are alleged to have violated. In the context of law enforcement, the charge may stem from an investigation, evidence collected, or observations made by police officers, indicating that a crime has occurred.

This definition is essential in the criminal justice system, as it sets the stage for the subsequent legal process, which includes arraignment and potential trial. It is significant to distinguish a criminal charge from other legal terms; for example, an indictment by a jury refers to a formal accusation made after evidence has been presented in a grand jury setting, while a sentence is the outcome of a trial or plea agreement where a judge determines the punishment. Therefore, the focus on the law enforcement aspect captures the procedural initiation of a criminal case, highlighting its importance in the progression of legal accountability.