In criminal cases, how is the prosecution typically named?

In criminal cases, the prosecution is typically named as "The People versus the defendant." This naming convention reflects the idea that the prosecution represents the interests of the public, or the community at large, in bringing a case against an individual accused of committing a crime. It emphasizes the role of the government as a representative of society, asserting that the defendant has violated laws that protect the community's welfare.

This nomenclature distinguishes criminal cases from civil cases. In civil matters, a private individual or entity brings a lawsuit against another, thus using terms like "plaintiff" and "defendant." In criminal law, since the prosecution is representing the broader interest of the public rather than a specific individual, it is appropriate to refer to the prosecuting entity as "the People."