Criminal Law

Prosecution

The party — represented by the state through a public prosecutor — that brings and pursues criminal charges against the accused.

In a criminal case, the state prosecutes the accused on behalf of society, through a public prosecutor, rather than the complainant personally conducting the case (as happens in a civil suit). The complainant's role is usually that of a witness.

In certain private complaint cases, and with the court's permission, a private lawyer can also assist the prosecution, but the state retains primary control over how the case is conducted.

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