In a criminal action, who is the person or party accused of an offense?

In a criminal action, the person or party accused of an offense is referred to as the defendant. This terminology is used in the legal system to identify the individual against whom the state's charges are filed. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial and legal representation and has the right to defend against the allegations made by the prosecution.

In contrast, the claimant typically refers to a person who makes a claim in civil matters, while the complainant is the individual who initiates a complaint in a criminal case, usually the victim or a witness who reports the alleged crime. The respondent is a term more commonly used in civil cases, particularly in family law, where it describes the party who responds to a petition or complaint filed against them. Understanding these roles is crucial for navigating the legal landscape, particularly in distinguishing between criminal and civil proceedings.