Information

An information is a formal criminal charge filed directly by a prosecutor, without the requirement of a grand jury indictment. It is a legal document that outlines the alleged offenses committed by the defendant, providing details such as the date, location, and specific actions that constitute the crime. The information serves as an alternative to an indictment in certain cases, typically for less serious offenses or when the defendant waives their right to a grand jury. It includes the relevant statutes or laws that the defendant is accused of violating and the potential penalties they face if convicted. The filing of an information initiates the criminal proceedings against the defendant, who must then appear in court to enter a plea and face trial or negotiate a plea bargain.