Accusés

Accusés is the plural of accused, referring to persons who are formally charged with a criminal offence and stand trial in a criminal proceeding. In French-language legal terminology, an accusé is the defendant before a court, and the term can apply to individuals involved in cases before tribunals such as the cour d’assises (for serious crimes) or the tribunal correctionnel (for less serious offences).

The status of accusé is distinct from related terms used in the investigation stage. A person under police inquiry is often called a prévenu, and a person who is subjected to a judicial investigation can be described as mis en examen. The term accusé typically designates someone who has been formally charged and is facing a judicial decision or verdict, rather than merely being suspected or investigated.

In court, the rights of the accusé include the presumption of innocence, the right to be informed of charges, access to the case file, legal counsel, and the right to a public hearing. The accused may present a defence, call witnesses, and respond to evidence presented by the prosecution. The outcome may result in acquittal or conviction, with sentences determined by the relevant court.

Usage and context vary by jurisdiction, but in French-speaking legal systems the accusés are the principal parties to a criminal action during the trial phase. The term emphasizes the status of individuals as defendants facing adjudication, rather than simply as suspects or investigations in progress.