bill of indictment

American  

noun

Law.

1. a written accusation submitted to a grand jury for its decision.

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bill of indictment British  

noun

1. criminal law a formal document accusing a person or persons of crime, formerly presented to a grand jury for certification as a true bill but now signed by a court official

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Example Sentences

At the request of the prosecution, a second charge of causing her death by careless driving was added to the bill of indictment, which he pleaded guilty to.

From BBC

The term ignoramus was written on bills of indictment when the evidence presented seemed insufficient to justify prosecution.

From Fox News

The bill of indictment lists six accusations against the accused, including voluntary homicide, the possession and detonation of an explosive, as well as forming part of a criminal organisation.

From BBC

In New York state, a grand jury returns a true bill of indictment if a bare majority — 12 of the 23 sitting jurors — believes there’s enough evidence to proceed to a criminal trial.

From The Verge

Nearly every detail of that bill of indictment could apply to Michigan State.

From New York Times

Related Words

• indictment