Who is referred to as a "defendant" in a legal context?

The term "defendant" specifically refers to an individual who has been accused of committing a crime in a legal context. This individual is the party being accused and is required to respond to the charges in court. The role of the defendant is foundational in the justice system, as they have the right to defend themselves against the accusations made by the prosecution.

In contrast, the other roles mentioned do not accurately capture the definition of a defendant. A witness provides testimony regarding the events in question, while a person providing legal counsel, such as an attorney, represents clients and offers legal guidance. The judge, on the other hand, oversees the legal proceedings and ensures that the trial has fairness and adherence to the law. Thus, the only choice that fits the definition of a "defendant" is the individual accused of a crime.