corporation

In one sentence

A legal business entity that can be held criminally responsible for certain acts.

Plain English

A corporation is a business organized as a separate legal entity from its owners. In criminal law, a corporation itself can be charged with crimes—not just the individual employees or executives. This happens when the crime benefits the corporation or is committed by employees acting within the scope of their job. A corporation can be fined or face other penalties, though it cannot be imprisoned.

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Example

A pharmaceutical company knowingly sells a drug with dangerous side effects that it hid from regulators. The company itself can be criminally charged with fraud, and the corporation may face millions in fines. Individual executives can also be charged separately.

Used in a sentence

“The corporation was convicted of environmental crimes for illegally dumping toxic waste.”

Related terms

Duress

Forcing someone to sign a contract through threats or coercion.

Fraudulent Misrepresentation

A deliberate false statement made with intent to deceive and cause harm.

Good Faith

An obligation to act honestly and fairly in performing or enforcing a contract.

accessory before the fact

Helping someone plan or prepare to commit a crime before it happens.

enhanced sentencing

A longer or harsher sentence imposed when certain aggravating factors or prior convictions are present.

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.