What is meant by the term "indictment"?

The term "indictment" refers specifically to a formal charge or accusation made against an individual for committing a serious crime. In legal contexts, an indictment is typically issued by a grand jury and serves as a precursor to a trial, indicating that there is enough evidence to formally accuse someone of a crime. This process ensures that the individual’s rights are protected by requiring a group of peers to review the evidence before a prosecution can proceed.

An indictment is a critical component of many legal systems as it establishes the basis for the criminal charges that will be brought against the defendant. This formalized process distinguishes it from other legal terms that involve collateral matters, such as plea deals or summary statements related to witness accounts, which serve different roles within the judicial system.