Paralegal Program Practice Test

In a criminal law case, the party that alleges the commission of a crime is the local, state, or federal government. In criminal proceedings, the government acts as the prosecuting body, bringing charges against an individual (the defendant) who is accused of committing a crime. This aligns with the principle that crimes are considered offenses against the state or society, rather than just against an individual victim.

The prosecutor represents the government and is responsible for presenting evidence to establish that the defendant committed the alleged offense. This role underscores the government's responsibility to enforce laws and uphold public order. Thus, in the context of criminal law, it is the government that initiates the prosecution by formally alleging the crime in court.