What is the term for the person being sued in a legal case?

The term for the person being sued in a legal case is "defendant." In legal terminology, the defendant is the individual or entity against whom a lawsuit is brought. The defendant is tasked with responding to the claims made by the plaintiff, who is the person initiating the lawsuit.

Understanding the role of the defendant is crucial in the context of legal proceedings, as it encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including presenting a defense, potentially countering claims, and participating in the legal process throughout the trial. The defendant has the right to a fair trial and representation, reflecting the principles of due process in legal systems.

Other roles such as the plaintiff, who brings forth the case, and the witness, who provides testimony regarding the facts of the case, are distinct from the role of the defendant. The appellant, on the other hand, refers to a party who appeals a court decision, which also differs from being the defendant in a trial. Recognizing these roles helps clarify the dynamics of civil and criminal law scenarios.