In a civil case, a person who brings the suit against another does so by setting out his claim in a written "complaint." The person being sued may dispute the claim by filing an "answer." The function of the jury is to return a verdict either for the plaintiff or for the defendant.
Criminal Case
In a criminal case, the action is brought in the name of the State of Indiana, as "plaintiff," against the person charged with a crime, who is called the "defendant." The defendant is brought before the court either by an "Indictment" or an "Information." If the charge is brought by a grand jury it is known as an Indictment. If the charge is brought by the Prosecuting Attorney, it is known as an Information. If the defendant admits the charge, he or she does so by entering a plea of "guilty." If the charge is denied, a plea of "not guilty" is entered. In criminal cases, the jury will be called upon to decide whether defendants are guilty or not guilty of offenses with which they are charged.