How does impeachment work?

Answer 1

The process of impeachment (at the United States Federal level) works the same, regardless of who the target is (the President, a Federal Judge, another Federal Officer, etc.).

See the related answers for a complete description (usually, this question is asked regarding Presidential impeachments, but the process is identical).

Answer 2

Definition for impeachment:a formal document charging a public official with misconduct in office

Impeahment must begin in the House of Representatives, where a motion is submitted into Committee detailing what crime or misdemeanor the President (or Vice President or federal judge) has committed. If the committee votes to accept the motion, it goes to a full vote in the House. If the House votes with a simple majority to impeach, a separate committee of 'managers' or prosecuters is chosen and the procedure now moves to the Senate.

With the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court acting as judge, the actual trial will be held in the Senate. After the managers and the impeached person's defenders address the Senate, the Senators are allowed to debate the issue. If the Senate votes with a simple majority to convict, then the President is removed; if less than a majority votes to convict then the President is acquitted.

Two Presidents have been impeached (though motions for impeachment have been submitted against most all Presidents though our history), but none have actually been convicted.

Answer 3

The House of Representatives accuses and the Senate tries the case as to weather or not the accused is guilty.