What is the Difference Between Charged and Convicted?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The difference between being charged and being convicted lies in the stages of the legal process and the consequences associated with each stage.
- Charged: Being charged signifies the initiation of legal proceedings based on allegations of criminal behavior. At this stage, the accused is considered a "defendant" and is not implying guilt. A charge (or indictment) is an accusation that someone committed a crime that must be proven in court. The accused is considered innocent until proven guilty.
- Convicted: Being convicted means that the person has either plead guilty or has been found guilty after a trial. A conviction establishes guilt in the eyes of the law, involving evidence and court determination. A conviction remains on a person's criminal record until they complete the expungement process. A conviction usually results in a sentence, such as probation, jail time, or prison.
In summary, being charged is the accusation of a crime, while being convicted is the formal finding of guilt and the imposition of a sentence. The distinction between being charged and being convicted is crucial for individuals navigating the criminal justice system, as it affects their rights, responsibilities, and potential consequences.
Comparative Table: Charged vs Convicted
Here is a table summarizing the differences between being charged and convicted:
Difference | Charged | Convicted |
---|---|---|
Definition | Being charged means being accused of a crime, and the government has formally accused a person of a crime. | Being convicted means either pleading guilty or being found guilty after a trial. |
Legal Status | A person charged with a crime is, by law, innocent. | A person convicted of a crime is, by law, guilty. |
Evidence Required | The government needs probable cause to charge someone with a crime. | The government needs proof beyond a reasonable doubt to convict someone of a crime. |
Burden of Proof | The burden of proof is on the government. | The burden of proof is still on the government. |
In summary, being charged with a crime means that the government has accused a person of committing a crime, and they are considered innocent until proven guilty. Being convicted means that the person has either pleaded guilty or has been found guilty after a trial, and they are considered guilty by law.
- Conviction vs Sentence
- Adjudication vs Conviction
- Condemnation vs Conviction
- Defendant vs Accused
- Conviction vs Belief
- Felony vs Crime
- Not Guilty vs Innocent
- Acquittal vs Not Guilty
- Guilty vs No Contest
- Civil vs Criminal Court
- Felony vs Misdemeanor
- Judgement vs Verdict
- Current vs Charge
- Juvenile Court vs Criminal Court
- Jury vs Juror
- Court vs Trial
- Judge vs Jury
- Jail vs Prison
- Jury vs Grand Jury