Countercharge: meaning, definitions and examples
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countercharge
[ ˈkaʊntərˌtʃɑrdʒ ]
legal term
A countercharge is an accusation made in response to a previous charge, typically in a legal context. It serves as a defensive strategy where the accused party presents allegations against their accuser to shift the focus or mitigate their liability.
Synonyms
counterclaim, recrimination, retaliation.
Examples of usage
- The defendant filed a countercharge against the plaintiff.
- After the initial accusation, the lawyer suggested a countercharge.
- The judge reviewed the evidence for both the charge and the countercharge.
to retaliate
To countercharge means to make an accusation or charge against someone who has accused you. This action is often taken as a means of defending oneself or as a tactic in legal proceedings.
Synonyms
claim back, respond, retaliate.
Examples of usage
- She decided to countercharge her former partner.
- The company plans to countercharge the claims made against it.
- He had to countercharge after being falsely accused.
Etymology
The term 'countercharge' originated from the combination of 'counter,' which comes from the Latin word 'contra,' meaning 'against,' and 'charge,' which is derived from the Old French 'charger' meaning 'to load' or 'to accuse.' The concept reflects the idea of responding to an accusation by making a new one that pushes against the original claim. The usage in legal terms can be traced back to the evolution of court practices, where defendants would assert their claims in a strategic manner in response to the charges brought against them, often to protect their interests and establish their side of the narrative. The term has evolved over time, finding its place not just in law but in general discourse where one might retaliate verbally or through actions in various disputes.