Cuffed defendant before criminal court (Transportation Security Administration image) In court proceedings, a defendant is a person or object who is the party either accused of committing a crime …

The meaning of DEFENDANT is a person or group against whom a criminal or civil action is brought : someone who is being sued or accused of committing a crime. How to use defendant in a sentence.

Aug 25, 2025 · The defendant is the party responding to the lawsuit in civil court or the individual accused of a crime in criminal court. In both settings, the defendant’s actions revolve around …

The defendant is accused of a range of crimes, from theft to murder. The judge directed the defendant to remain silent. The defendant sat impassively in the dock while evidence was given against him. A …

Nov 10, 2025 · Learn what is a defendant in court, your legal rights, and the essential steps to take in both civil and criminal proceedings...

In certain types of actions, the defendant is called the respondent. However, the term respondent is usually used to designate the person responding to an appeal.

Aug 7, 2025 · A defendant is the party against whom a legal action is brought in a court of law. This individual or entity must respond to a formal accusation or claim, defending against allegations in a …

Someone is either suing you for money or accusing you of a crime. In that moment, the legal system has given you a new and unsettling title: defendant. Being a defendant means you are the person, …

Answer The formal written statement by a defendant in a civil case that responds to a complaint, articulating the grounds for defense.

Defendant Definition Why Trust Us? Fact-Checked The person or entity against whom a criminal or civil case is filed. Some states use the term respondent instead of defendant in divorce and family law …