the process of bringing formal charges against an elected official for misconduct or crimes committed while in office

Impeachment is the process of bringing formal charges against an elected official for misconduct or crimes committed while in office. It is a constitutional mechanism in many countries, including the United States, to hold public officials accountable for their actions. The impeachment process typically involves a formal investigation, followed by a trial where evidence is presented and a judgment is made by a legislative body, such as the Congress or Parliament. If an official is found guilty of impeachable offenses, they may be removed from office and potentially face criminal prosecution.