Virginia Code 19.2-216: Definition of indictment, presentment and information
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An indictment is a written accusation of crime, prepared by the attorney for the Commonwealth and returned “a true bill” upon the oath or affirmation of a legally impanelled grand jury.
Terms Used In Virginia Code 19.2-216
- Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
- Grand jury: agreement providing that a lender will delay exercising its rights (in the case of a mortgage,
- 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.
- Oath: A promise to tell the truth.
- Oath: includes affirmation. See Virginia Code 1-228
A presentment is a written accusation of crime prepared and returned by a grand jury from their own knowledge or observation, without any bill of indictment laid before them.
An information is a written accusation of crime or a complaint for forfeiture of property or money or for imposition of a penalty, prepared and presented by a competent public official upon his oath of office.
1975, c. 495.