BILL OF INFORMATION Meaning and
Definition
-
A bill of information refers to a legal document filed by a prosecuting attorney in certain common law jurisdictions, which contains formal charges against an individual accused of a crime. It is typically used in cases where the accused individual has waived their right to a grand jury indictment or in jurisdictions where grand jury systems are not utilized.
The bill of information outlines the specific charges levied against the accused, including the nature of the offense, relevant statutes violated, and a succinct statement of the facts supporting the charges. It serves as the official instrument to inform the accused of the crimes they are being accused of committing, allowing them to prepare their defense accordingly.
The content within a bill of information is presented in a clear and concise manner, enabling the defendant to understand the allegations made against them and the potential consequences they may face. This document is a crucial step in the criminal justice process as it initiates the formal legal proceedings against the accused and ensures that they receive a fair trial.
While some jurisdictions require a grand jury indictment for felony offenses, a bill of information provides an alternative method to charge defendants, placing the decision solely in the hands of the prosecuting attorney. This allows for a more expedited process in cases where sufficient evidence is present, thereby minimizing the time required for the case to proceed to trial.
