Terms Used In Idaho Code 19-1402

  • Answer: The formal written statement by a defendant responding to a civil complaint and setting forth the grounds for defense.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Indictment: The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.
If twelve (12) grand jurors do not concur in finding an indictment against a defendant who has been held to answer, the depositions, if any, transmitted to them must be returned to the court, with an indorsement thereon, signed by the foreman, to the effect that the charge is dismissed.