prévenu

In the legal context, "prévenu" is a French term that translates to "accused" or "defendant." It refers to a person who has been charged with a criminal offense and is awaiting trial or is currently on trial. The term is used in both civil law and common law jurisdictions where French legal terminology is influential or adopted.

A prévenu is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. They have the right to legal representation, the right to confront their accusers, and the right to present a defense. The specific rights and procedures surrounding a prévenu can vary depending on the jurisdiction's legal system and the nature of the alleged offense.

The designation of prévenu typically begins when formal charges are brought against an individual, such as through an indictment or an arrest followed by charges. Throughout the legal proceedings, the prévenu remains the central figure whose guilt or innocence is to be determined by the court. Once a verdict is reached, the individual may no longer be referred to as a prévenu, becoming either a convicted offender or acquitted. The term emphasizes the stage of the legal process where an individual is formally accused of a crime.