prosecuted
Definition
Being prosecuted means the government has formally decided to take you to court and charge you with breaking a criminal law. A prosecutor, who works for the government, builds and presents the case against you before a judge or jury.
Example
If you were caught selling goods without collecting required sales taxes and the government believed it was intentional fraud, you could be prosecuted and potentially face fines or jail time.
Watch Out
Prosecution is a criminal matter handled by the government, which is much more serious than a civil lawsuit where another person or business sues you for money.
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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.