19.2-216 - Definition of indictment, presentment and information. - Virginia Statutes

§ 19.2-216. Definition of indictment, presentment and information.

An indictment is a written accusation of crime, prepared by the attorney forthe Commonwealth and returned "a true bill" upon the oath or affirmation ofa legally impanelled grand jury.

A presentment is a written accusation of crime prepared and returned by agrand jury from their own knowledge or observation, without any bill ofindictment laid before them.

An information is a written accusation of crime or a complaint for forfeitureof property or money or for imposition of a penalty, prepared and presentedby a competent public official upon his oath of office.

(1975, c. 495.)