Acquittal – definition
In criminal law, an acquittal is a legal judgment that formally clears a defendant of the criminal charges brought against them. It signifies that the prosecution has failed to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. An acquittal can be rendered either by a judge or a jury, resulting in a verdict of “not guilty.” This judgment releases the accused from the accusation and any associated penalties or legal obligations for the charge in question.
An acquittal does not necessarily mean that the defendant is declared innocent; rather, it means there was insufficient evidence to establish guilt to the required legal standard. The principle of double jeopardy generally prevents the defendant from being tried again for the same offense following an acquittal, ensuring finality in criminal proceedings.
Key aspects of the concept
- Acquittal reflects the failure of the prosecution to meet the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
- It may be based on a jury verdict or a judge’s decision if the evidence is deemed insufficient to support a conviction.
- An acquittal results in the defendant being discharged from the charges.
- The double jeopardy clause typically prohibits retrials for the same offense after an acquittal.
- The legal effect and finality of acquittals can vary across jurisdictions, with some allowing appeals or retrials under exceptional circumstances such as new compelling evidence or procedural errors.
- An acquittal can be complete (covering all charges) or partial, where some charges are dismissed while others may result in conviction.
Examples of use of “Acquittal”
- A defendant is acquitted after a jury finds that the prosecution did not prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
- A judge directs an acquittal when evidence presented is legally insufficient to support a conviction.
- Following an acquittal, the defendant is free to leave the court without restrictions regarding the charges.
- In a case with multiple charges, an acquittal may be entered for some offenses while the defendant is convicted on others.
See also
- Not Guilty
- Double Jeopardy
- Judgment of Acquittal
- Criminal Trial