Rhode Island General Laws 12-12-1.4. Contents of indictments, informations and complaints
Current as of: 2023 | Check for updates
|
Other versions
An indictment, information, or complaint shall be a plain, concise, and definite written statement of the offense charged. An indictment, information, or complaint which provides the defendant and the court with adequate notice of the offense being charged shall be sufficient if the offense is charged either:
(1) By using the name given to the offense in terms of either the common law or by statute; or
(2) By stating the definition of the offense in terms of substantially the same meaning.
History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 118, § 11.
Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 12-12-1.4
- Common law: The legal system that originated in England and is now in use in the United States. It is based on judicial decisions rather than legislative action.
- Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
- 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.
- Statute: A law passed by a legislature.