Nüüdistatud

Nüüdistatud is an Estonian term that translates to "accused" in English. It refers to an individual who has been formally charged with committing a crime by the competent authorities. This status is a crucial stage in the criminal justice process, signifying that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a trial. The term "nüüdistatud" is distinct from "kahtlustatav" (suspect), which denotes someone believed to have committed a crime but not yet formally charged.

In Estonia, the process of becoming a "nüüdistatud" typically involves an indictment or a similar formal notification from the prosecutor's office. Once an individual is accused, they are entitled to certain legal rights, including the right to legal representation and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law. The accused person has the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges presented.

The legal proceedings following the accusation aim to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused. This involves the presentation of evidence by both the prosecution and the defense. The ultimate outcome of the trial will result in either a conviction, leading to potential penalties, or an acquittal, where the accused is found not guilty. The term "nüüdistatud" thus encapsulates the legal standing of an individual facing criminal prosecution.