What should be included in a criminal case heading?

In a criminal case heading, it's essential to include the people involved to provide clarity about the parties in the case. This typically includes the name of the prosecution (often referred to as "The People" or the state) and the defendant. By identifying these parties, it sets a clear context for the case and helps all readers, including judges, attorneys, and court staff, understand who is involved right away.

Including the people in the heading also aligns with standard legal formatting and enhances the document's professionalism. It establishes the relationship between the parties and indicates the adversarial nature of a criminal proceeding.

While aspects like the defendant's birth date, legal counsel, and specific charges might be relevant in certain contexts, they are not standard elements of the case heading. Instead, emphasizing the roles of the parties involved provides a foundational understanding of the case at a glance.