94. prosecute

What is Prosecute?

To prosecute means to initiate and carry out legal action against an individual or entity for a crime or legal violation. Typically, a government attorney (prosecutor) represents the state or federal government in a criminal case against the accused (defendant).

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Key Aspects of Prosecution

✔ Criminal Cases – The prosecutor brings charges on behalf of the government against a defendant. ✔ Civil Cases – The plaintiff (individual or entity) can prosecute a lawsuit against another party for damages or legal relief. ✔ Prosecutorial Discretion – Prosecutors decide whether to pursue charges based on evidence, legal merit, and public interest. ✔ Burden of Proof – In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. ✔ Trial Process – The prosecution presents evidence, witness testimony, and legal arguments to secure a conviction.

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Examples of Prosecution

• A district attorney prosecutes a defendant charged with burglary in state court.

• The federal government prosecutes a company for securities fraud.

• A city attorney prosecutes a person for violating local ordinances.

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5 Reference Pages for Prosecute with URLs

1. Cornell Law School – Legal Definition of Prosecution

   • URL: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/prosecution

   • Explanation: Defines prosecution, discusses its role in criminal law, and explains the prosecutorial process.

2. FindLaw – The Role of Prosecutors in Criminal Cases

   • URL: https://www.findlaw.com/criminal/criminal-procedure/prosecution-the-role-of-the-prosecutor.html

   • Explanation: Explores the responsibilities of prosecutors, the decision to file charges, and trial procedures.

3. United States Department of Justice – Prosecutorial Process

   • URL: https://www.justice.gov/criminal

   • Explanation: Provides an overview of how federal prosecutions work, from investigation to trial and sentencing.

4. American Bar Association – Prosecutor’s Role in the Criminal Justice System

   • URL: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/criminal_justice/standards/ProsecutionFunctionFourthEdition/

   • Explanation: Discusses ethical standards, prosecutorial discretion, and fair trial obligations for prosecutors.

5. Wikipedia – Criminal Prosecution Overview

   • URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prosecution

   • Explanation: Offers a broad look at prosecution across different legal systems, including state and federal cases.

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