1. A formal charge of criminal wrongdoing. • The accusation is usu. presented to a court or magistrate having jurisdiction to inquire into the alleged crime.
2. An informal statement that a person has engaged in an illegal or immoral act.
malicious accusation. An accusation against another for an improper purpose and without probable cause. See MALICIOUS PROSECUTION. [Cases: Malicious Prosecution 15, 26. C.J.S. Malicious Prosecution or Wrongful Litigation §§ 23, 38.]
