Criminal Procedure
Information
A criminal charging document filed by a prosecutor without a grand jury indictment.
Governing rule: Fed. R. Crim. P. 7
Plain-English definition
An information is a prosecutor-filed charge. In federal felony cases, it is commonly used when a defendant waives indictment, often as part of a negotiated plea. In misdemeanors and many state systems, informations are routine charging documents.
How it works
The information must state essential facts and cite the statute charged. A defendant can waive indictment in open court after being advised of the charge and rights.
Why it matters
A felony information often signals plea negotiations, cooperation, or a streamlined charging path.
Related terms
More in Criminal Procedure
Allocution
A defendant’s opportunity to speak directly to the judge before sentence is imposed.
Arraignment
A criminal proceeding where charges are formally read or presented and the defendant enters an initial plea.
Bail
Release before trial under conditions designed to assure appearance and protect the community.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
The constitutional proof standard the government must meet to convict a defendant of a crime.
Bond
A financial or secured promise tied to a defendant’s release and future court appearances.
Indictment
A formal criminal charging document issued by a grand jury after finding probable cause to accuse the defendant.
Plea Agreement
An agreement in which a criminal defendant pleads guilty under negotiated terms with the government.
Probable Cause
A practical probability standard used for arrests, searches, warrants, and some charging decisions.
Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.