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We compare the British term "Indictable" with the USA Equivalent
While in the English system ('ie., Canada, UK., etc.) it's called an indictable offense is there a comparative in the USA system?
In the English legal system, "indictable offense" signifies a serious crime that requires an indictment (a formal accusation) and is typically tried before a judge and jury. In the United States, the closest comparative term is a "felony."
Here's a breakdown:
Indictable Offense (English System):
This term refers to crimes that are considered severe enough to warrant a formal indictment.
These offenses generally involve more serious penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
Felony (U.S. System):
A felony is a serious crime that is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, or by death.
Like indictable offenses, felonies are typically tried in higher courts.
Federal felonies require a Grand Jury indictment.
Key Similarities:
Both terms denote serious criminal offenses.
Both involve formal legal procedures, including the possibility of a grand jury indictment (especially at the Federal level in the USA), and trial by jury.
Both carry the harshest criminal penalties.
Therefore, while the terminology differs, "felony" in the U.S. system serves a similar function to "indictable offense" in the English system.
It is also important to remember that the USA also has "misdemeanors" which are comparable to less serious offences in the English system.
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