Defendant

usgb/dɪˈfendənt/
noun

A person, company or group facing charges in a court of law.

The judge asked the defendant if they understood the charges against them.
Visual representation of "defendant" - A person, company or group facing charges in a court of law

Often appears as...

  • accused defendant
  • alleged defendant

Usage tips

Formal

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Visual representation of "defendant"
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Legal Context

Used strictly in legal situations to describe someone being tried or sued.

Illustration for Legal Context
The court addressed the defendant regarding the lawsuit.
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Presumption of Innocence

'Defendant' doesn't mean guilty; it indicates someone's charges are not yet proven.

Illustration for Presumption of Innocence
The defendant maintained their innocence as the trial began.
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Neutral Term

The term is neutral and does not imply character judgment.

Illustration for Neutral Term
Legal documents referred to Mr. Smith as the defendant.
Visual representation of the word "Defendant"

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