Indictment

A written accusation by a grand jury charging a person with a felony. See information.

The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.

The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies. See also information.

A written accusation charging that a person has committed a crime.

A formal written document showing criminal charges brought by a grand jury. The Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure requires that all felony cases be prosecuted by indictment. Indigent defendant: A defendant who does not have the financial resources to hire an attorney and who qualifies for a court-appointed attorney under the CJA.