Home > West's Encyclopedia of American Law > Indictment

A written accusation charging that an individual named therein has committed an act or omitted to do something that is punishable by law.

An indictment is found and presented by a GRAND JURY legally convened and sworn. It originates with a prosecutor and is issued by the grand jury against an individual who is charged with a crime. Before such individual may be convicted, the charge must be proved at trial BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT.

The purpose of an indictment is to inform an accused individual of the charge against him or her so that the person will be able to prepare a defense.