Investigation

In criminal procedure, an investigation refers to the systematic process undertaken by law enforcement to gather facts and evidence about a potential crime. This can involve interviewing witnesses, collecting physical evidence, examining crime scenes, and conducting background checks on suspects. The goal of the investigation is to establish whether a crime has occurred, identify the responsible party, and gather sufficient evidence to support legal action, such as arresting a suspect or filing charges. Investigations must adhere to legal standards to ensure that evidence is obtained lawfully and can be used in court.