Allege

Allege is a term commonly used in law and journalism to assert or claim that someone has done something illegal or wrong, typically without providing proof. The term is often used in legal contexts to describe accusations that have not yet been proven in a court of law.

Usage in Law

In the legal system, to allege means to make a statement or claim that is yet to be proven. Allegations are often made in the initial stages of a legal case, such as in a complaint or an indictment. The party making the allegation is typically required to provide evidence to support their claims during the course of the legal proceedings.

Types of Allegations

• Criminal Allegations: Claims that an individual has committed a crime. These must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
• Civil Allegations: Claims made in civil lawsuits, such as allegations of negligence or breach of contract. These are typically proven by a preponderance of the evidence.

Usage in Journalism

In journalism, the term "allege" is used to report claims or accusations without asserting them as fact. This is particularly important in maintaining journalistic ethics and avoiding defamation lawsuits. Journalists often use the term to indicate that the information is based on sources or reports, but has not been independently verified.

Related Legal Concepts

• Presumption of innocence
• Burden of proof
• Defamation
• Libel
• Slander

See Also

• Accusation
• Complaint
• Indictment
• Evidence
• Trial