Charge Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Charge.

Charge (noun)

1. In the context of a trial, a "charge" refers to the detailed instructions that a judge gives to the jury before they start deliberating. These instructions explain the laws related to the case and what the jury should consider in their decision.

2. The term "charge" also refers to the formal accusation made against a person, often in a legal document called a "complaint". This outlines the alleged crime committed by an individual, according to the laws broken.