Definition

1. Noun:
   • The institution and conduct of legal proceedings against a defendant for criminal behavior: This refers to the formal legal process initiated by the state (through a prosecutor) against an individual or entity accused of committing a crime. It encompasses the entire course of action from charging the defendant through to a potential trial and verdict.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The evidence was strong enough to initiate a criminal prosecution.
  • The criminal prosecution for fraud took over two years to conclude.
  • He faced criminal prosecution for his alleged role in the conspiracy.

Advanced Usage

• "to bring a criminal prosecution against someone": To formally initiate legal proceedings against a person for a criminal offense.

  • The district attorney decided to bring a criminal prosecution against the corporation for environmental violations.

• "to be immune from criminal prosecution": To be legally protected from being subjected to criminal legal proceedings.

  • Diplomats often enjoy immunity from criminal prosecution in their host countries.

Variants and Related Words

• Prosecute (verb): To institute and conduct legal proceedings against someone.

  • The state will prosecute the case vigorously.

• Prosecutor (noun): A legal official who conducts criminal proceedings on behalf of the state.

  • The prosecutor presented the case to the jury.

• Prosecutorial (adjective): Relating to the role or conduct of a prosecutor.

  • The decision was based on prosecutorial discretion.

Synonyms

• Legal proceedings: The process of using the legal system to resolve a dispute or enforce a law.
• Criminal proceedings: A more general term synonymous with criminal prosecution.
• Trial (in context): The judicial examination of issues in a case, which is a key part of prosecution.

Related Phrases

• Prosecution case: The body of evidence and arguments presented by the prosecution.

  • The strength of the prosecution case will determine the outcome.

• Witness for the prosecution: A person who testifies in court on behalf of the prosecution.

  • The key witness for the prosecution provided crucial testimony.

Noun

1. the institution and conduct of legal proceedings against a defendant for criminal behavior