In the context of criminal law, what is the meaning of "legal proceedings"?

The term "legal proceedings" refers to a formal process through which laws are enforced and disputes are adjudicated in a court of law. This process typically involves various steps, including filing a complaint, presenting evidence, and making legal arguments, ultimately leading to a resolution that is binding and enforceable by law. In the context of criminal law, this is particularly relevant, as legal proceedings initiate when a person is accused of a crime, leading to actions such as arraignment, trial, and sentencing if found guilty.

Other options present different scenarios that do not encapsulate the formal nature of legal proceedings. Settling a dispute outside of court, engaging in informal negotiations, or conducting a private investigation by the police lack the structure and legal binding nature characteristic of court-based proceedings. Hence, the focus on enforcement and adjudication through established legal processes clearly aligns with the definition of "legal proceedings."