Charge

/ˈtʃɑːrdʒ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal accusation made by a governmental authority asserting that someone has committed a crime.
    The defendant faced a charge of theft.
  2. (n.) An expense or cost billed to a person or account.
    The service includes a delivery charge.
  3. (v.) To formally accuse someone of a crime.
    The prosecutor decided to charge the suspect with fraud.

Forms

  • charges
  • charged
  • charging

Commentary

'Charge' as a noun often refers to the formal accusation in criminal law, distinct from 'indictment' which is a formal written accusation by a grand jury.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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