Legal Definition of Prosecute: To proceed and to maintain a legal action, such as a prosecuting attorney who tries in court to prove an accused person to be guilty; to attempt to enforce by legal action | Learn the legal definition of prosecution and its importance for business owners. Discover examples of criminal and civil prosecution, as well as prosecution of intellectual property infringement. Find out how prosecution can protect your rights, deter unlawful behavior, and preserve your business’s reputation. Seek legal advice to ensure proper prosecution