amended complaint

In one sentence

A revised version of a criminal or civil complaint filed to correct or add charges.

Plain English

An amended complaint is a revised version of the original complaint that starts a criminal or civil case. The prosecutor or plaintiff files it to correct errors, add new charges, or provide additional details about the alleged wrongdoing. In criminal cases, the defendant usually has the right to see the amended complaint and respond to the new allegations.

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Example

A prosecutor initially files a complaint charging someone with simple assault, but after gathering more evidence, files an amended complaint that also includes charges for aggravated assault and battery with a weapon.

Used in a sentence

“The prosecutor filed an amended complaint adding three additional counts of fraud to the original charges.”

Related terms

Prosecution

The government's legal action to charge and try someone for a crime.

arrest warrant

A court order authorizing police to arrest a specific person suspected of a crime.

confession

A voluntary admission by someone that they committed a crime.

Sentencing

The judge's decision on punishment after a defendant is found guilty.

adjudication hearing

A court proceeding where a judge hears evidence and makes a formal decision about a legal matter.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.