Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

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Prepare for the paralegal studies exam with our engaging quiz, featuring multiple choice questions and hints for gaining knowledge about the legal field. Build your confidence and do well on your test!

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Which of the following terms refers to a party that is accused of a crime?

Litigant
Defendant
Complainant
Appellant

The correct answer is: Defendant

The term that refers to a party accused of a crime is "defendant." In legal terminology, a defendant is an individual or entity formally charged with a criminal offense in a court of law. In a criminal trial, the defendant is the person who must defend against the accusations made by the prosecution. In contrast, a litigant refers to anyone involved in a lawsuit, which can include both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases, but does not specifically denote the party accused of a crime. The complainant typically refers to the party that brings a complaint or allegation to court, usually in civil matters, as it concerns the person who initiates a legal action. The appellant is a term used for a party who appeals a court decision, challenging the outcome in a higher court, which is not applicable in the context of being accused of a crime. Therefore, "defendant" is the precise and accurate term for a party accused of a crime.