Final answer:
Defendants are formally charged in court with a violation of criminal law by the government. This process includes indictment, informing the defendant of their rights, and ensuring the right to legal representation. Serious crimes often require a grand jury, while less serious offenses may undergo a preliminary hearing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Defendants in the United States are formally charged in court with a violation of criminal law by the government, which acts as the plaintiff in criminal cases. This means that when a crime—a behavior that violates official law—is alleged to have been committed, the state or federal government will bring charges against the individual, referred to as the defendant. The court system then follows a legal process, where an indictment or similar charging document is presented, and the defendant is informed of the charges and their rights, including the right to legal representation. For serious crimes, this may involve a grand jury process; for less serious violations, a preliminary hearing before a judge might suffice.
In criminal justice, it is crucial to protect the defendant's rights, including the right to a fair trial, which is overseen by impartial judges and, when applicable, juries. Moreover, if defendants cannot afford an attorney, they have the right to a public defender—a defense attorney employed and paid by the state—to ensure their right to an adequate defense is upheld. Ultimately, the adjudication of criminal charges by courts is an essential component of maintaining law and order and holding individuals accountable for violations of the law.