"Answering charges" implies that someone is responding to accusations or allegations made against them. Antonyms for this phrase might include "innocent," "not guilty," or "exonerated." These antonyms suggest that the accused party has not done anything wrong, or has been cleared of wrongdoing. Other antonyms might include "ignorant" or "unaware," suggesting that the accused party had no knowledge of the alleged wrongdoing. Finally, the antonym "silent" might also be appropriate, suggesting that the accused party is not responding to the charges against them. Regardless of the antonym used, it is clear that "answering charges" implies a certain level of guilt or responsibility on the part of the accused party.