What term describes the person against whom legal action is brought?

The term that describes the person against whom legal action is brought is "defendant." In legal proceedings, the defendant is the individual or entity being accused or sued. They face the lawsuit initiated by the plaintiff (the person bringing the action), and their role is to respond to the claims made against them.

In a courtroom context, the defendant has the opportunity to present their side of the story and defend against the allegations. This process encompasses various legal rights and responsibilities, such as being present at hearings, providing evidence, and the right to legal representation.

Understanding the role of the defendant is essential in the legal system as it also outlines the protections afforded to individuals in legal matters, emphasizing fair trial rights and due process. The other terms, while relevant in the legal context, describe different participants or aspects of the legal process.