Terms Used In Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure 479

  • 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.
  • Statute: A law passed by a legislature.

An indictment shall not be invalid or insufficient for the reason that it fails to negative an exception, excuse, or proviso contained in the statute creating or defining the offense.  An exception, excuse, or proviso must be urged by way of defense.