Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE). Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions designed to enhance your knowledge of paralegal standards and competencies. Prepare effectively and increase your chances of passing!

Start Multiple Choice Practice Test
Start Flash Cards

Practice this question and more.

What is an indictment?

  1. A written statement of defense

  2. A formal accusation of a serious crime

  3. A plea agreement made before trial

  4. A summary of evidence against the accused

The correct answer is: A formal accusation of a serious crime

An indictment is a formal accusation that a person has committed a serious crime, typically issued by a grand jury. This legal document indicates that there is sufficient evidence to charge the individual and proceed with a trial. An indictment serves as a crucial step in the criminal justice process, as it requires the prosecution to present evidence before a group of citizens who assess whether there is enough basis to formally accuse someone of a crime. The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of an indictment. A written statement of defense relates to a defendant's response to charges, while a plea agreement is a negotiation between the prosecutor and defendant regarding the outcome of the case. A summary of evidence against the accused refers to the prosecution's presentation of its case but doesn’t carry the weight of formal accusation that an indictment does. Thus, identifying an indictment as a formal accusation of a serious crime is essential for understanding its role within legal proceedings.

More Questions Like This