Legal Definitions - criminal case

A criminal case is a legal proceeding initiated by the government against an individual or entity accused of breaking a law that prohibits certain conduct and carries penalties. Unlike civil cases, which typically resolve disputes between private parties, a criminal case focuses on whether a person has committed an offense against society as a whole. The government, represented by a prosecutor, must prove the defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." If found guilty, the defendant may face various penalties, including fines, probation, community service, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime.

Here are some examples to illustrate what a criminal case entails:

• Example 1: Shoplifting

  Imagine a person is caught on camera taking an item from a department store without paying. The store security detains them and calls the police. The police arrest the individual, and a prosecutor, representing the state or city, decides to file charges for theft. This action initiates a criminal case. The government will then present evidence in court to prove that the individual committed the crime of shoplifting. If convicted, the person might face a fine, community service, or a short jail sentence, demonstrating the legal process and potential penalties for a minor offense.

• Example 2: Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

  Consider a situation where a driver is pulled over by law enforcement and, after a series of field sobriety tests and a breathalyzer, is arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. The state's prosecutor will then bring charges against the driver, marking the beginning of a criminal case. The government's objective is to prove that the driver operated a vehicle while impaired, which is a crime that endangers public safety. If found guilty, the driver could face penalties such as license suspension, significant fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, or even imprisonment, illustrating how criminal cases address public safety violations with more severe consequences.

• Example 3: Embezzlement

  Suppose a financial manager at a large corporation is suspected of secretly transferring company funds into their personal accounts over several years. After an internal investigation uncovers evidence, federal or state prosecutors would investigate further and bring charges against the financial manager for embezzlement, initiating a criminal case. In court, the government would present detailed financial records and other evidence to prove that the manager committed this serious white-collar crime. A conviction could result in substantial prison time, an order to pay restitution to the company, and large fines, showcasing how criminal cases handle complex financial offenses and their severe repercussions.