the defence; defence side
Used in legal contexts to refer to the defence team or the side representing the defendant. Often contrasted with 検察側 (the prosecution).
See also: 検察側 (けんさつがわ)
The defence argued for the defendant's innocence.
In a trial, the defence and the prosecution oppose each other.
Compound of 弁護 (defence, advocacy) and 側 (side).