But, in a partial acquittal, a defendant is found not guilty of one charge, but guilty of another offense.
#Not guilty meaning full
A full acquittal means that after a jury or bench trial, the jury or judge finds the defendant not guilty on all charges. There are full acquittals and partial acquittals. The defense argues that no jury could possibly find guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The motion for acquittal depends on the claim of insufficient evidence for a conviction at trial. When can a judge order an acquittal?Įven in jury trials, a judge has the ability to acquit a defendant. In other words, all acquittals mean a not guilty verdict, but not all not guilty verdicts are acquittals. Not guilty means that a defendant isn’t legally answerable for the crime. An acquittal is a finding by a judge or jury that the defendant in question isn’t guilty of the crime. Is there a difference between being acquitted and being found not guilty?Īn acquittal is a general term for a not guilty verdict, there are differences between the two under criminal law. If the evidence brought in wasn’t sufficient enough to come to a guilty verdict, it results in an acquittal. In federal criminal trials, the jury must reach a decision unanimously in order for a conviction. The job of the judge isn’t to take sides with the prosecution or defense but rather uphold the law.Īfter hearing opening statements, witness examination, objections, and closing arguments, the jury deliberates (the process of deciding whether the defendant is guilty or not).
The judge decides what evidence can be shown to the jury during a trial. Both sides are represented by an attorney. The defendant may also bring in witnesses and evidence to counter the prosecution although they need not prove their innocence. During trial, the prosecutor brings in witnesses and evidence to prove their case against the defendant to the jury or judge. The preponderance of evidence and culpability was gathered, the accused was charged and given a formal trial.
Before a jury or judge (if it’s a bench trial) may convict a person of a crime, they must be convinced of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.įor an acquittal or “not guilty” verdict, a suspect is formally dismissed by due process. A suspect is entitled to due process of the law.
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