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Simple English definitions for legal terms
charge
Read a random definition: intervening cause
A quick definition of charge:
Charge: A charge is when someone is accused of doing something wrong, like breaking the law. The person who decides on the charges is called the prosecuting attorney and they look at all the evidence before deciding what to charge the person with. Charges are announced at a special court hearing called an arraignment. A charge can also be a fee for a service or a financial burden on something like property.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: A charge can have several meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
In criminal cases, a charge is a formal accusation of criminal activity. The prosecuting attorney decides on the charges, after reviewing police reports, witness statements, and any other evidence of wrongdoing. Formal charges are announced at an arrested person's arraignment. For example, X was charged with murder.
In jury trials, a charge is the instruction given by a judge to a jury regarding the law, its application, and the weighing of evidence.
A charge may be a financial burden or an encumbrance, lien or claim. For example, a charge on property.
A charge is also a fee for services. For example, a doctor may charge a fee for a medical consultation.
The examples illustrate the different meanings of the term "charge." In criminal cases, a charge is a formal accusation of criminal activity. In jury trials, a charge is the instruction given by a judge to a jury regarding the law. A charge can also refer to a financial burden or an encumbrance, lien or claim. Finally, a charge can be a fee for services, such as a doctor's consultation fee.