defendee

A defendee is a legal term referring to the party against whom a lawsuit or legal action is brought. In essence, the defendee is the person or entity accused of wrongdoing or owing a duty that has allegedly been breached, and therefore is being sued. This contrasts with the plaintiff or claimant, who is the party initiating the legal action.

The term "defendee" is commonly used in civil litigation. For example, if person A sues person B for damages resulting from a car accident, person B would be the defendee. In criminal law, the term "defendant" is more frequently used, referring to the individual accused of committing a crime. However, in some contexts, the terms can be used interchangeably.

The defendee has the right to respond to the allegations made against them. This typically involves filing an answer with the court, which may admit or deny the claims and may also raise affirmative defenses. The defendee is entitled to legal representation and has the opportunity to present their case and evidence to refute the claims. The outcome of the legal action can result in the defendee being found liable or not liable for the alleged actions.