AGAINST THE PEACE AND DIGNITY OF THE STATE
against the peace and dignity of the state.A concluding phrase in an indictment, used to
condemn the offending conduct generally (as opposed to the specific charge of wrongdoing
contained in the body of the instrument). • This phrase derives from the Law Latin contra pacem
domini regis (“against the peace of the lord the king”), a charging phrase formerly used in
indictments and in civil actions of trespass. Cf. KING’S PEACE. [Cases: Indictment and
Information 32(3).] [Blacks Law 8th]