Defendant
/dɪˈfɛndənt/
Definitions
- (n.) A party against whom a legal action is brought in a court of law.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Forms
- defendants
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal contexts, 'defendant' specifically refers to the opposing party in civil or criminal proceedings; clarity in identifying parties is crucial in pleadings.
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.