noun a formal accusation of a crime made by a prosecutor or law enforcement
verb to officially accuse someone of committing a crime
In the field of law, 'prefer charges' refers to the act of formally accusing someone of committing a crime.
Within criminal justice, 'prefer charges' is used when a prosecutor decides to formally charge a defendant with a crime.
Within the legal system, 'prefer charges' is the process of initiating legal action against an individual for alleged criminal behavior.
In police procedure, 'prefer charges' is relevant when law enforcement officers decide to bring charges against a suspect.
A lawyer may advise a client to prefer charges against someone who has committed a crime against them.
A police officer may ask a victim if they would like to prefer charges against the perpetrator of a crime.
A district attorney may review evidence and decide whether to prefer charges against a suspect in a criminal case.
A human resources manager may receive a complaint of misconduct in the workplace and decide whether to prefer charges against the employee involved.