What does an indictment serve as in legal terms?

An indictment serves as a formal charge against an individual, indicating that a grand jury has determined there is enough evidence to formally accuse someone of a serious crime. While it does not serve the exact function of an arrest warrant in that it does not authorize an arrest, it does signify that the criminal justice process is moving forward based on sufficient evidence, eliminating the need for a preliminary examination in cases where the indictment has been accepted.

In contrast, a plea bargain agreement involves negotiations between the prosecution and the defendant to reach a resolution, which is distinctly different from the nature of an indictment. Similarly, a formal complaint pertains to less serious offenses and is not the same as an indictment, which is reserved for felonies. Finally, a sentencing order by a judge occurs after a verdict has been rendered, whereas an indictment happens prior to any trial or sentencing, making it a critical starting point in the prosecution’s case. Thus, the identification of an indictment highlights its role as a precursor to trial rather than directly involving arrest, lesser offenses, or sentencing.