Acquit is a legal term used to describe the action of a court or jury declaring a defendant not guilty of the charges brought against them in a criminal trial. When a defendant is acquitted, it means that they are cleared of all criminal liability and are not subject to punishment for the alleged offense. Acquittal can occur due to lack of evidence, failure of the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, or the determination that the defendant’s actions did not constitute a crime. Acquittal is a crucial outcome in criminal proceedings, as it upholds the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” and protects individuals from wrongful conviction and unjust punishment.
Acquit (verb): 1. To declare someone not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, especially in a court of law, based on the lack of evidence or proof of their guilt. Example: The jury unanimously acquitted the defendant due to the lack of credible witnesses. 2. To absolve or exonerate someone from blame, responsibility, or a perceived wrongdoing. Example: The investigation revealed no evidence to support the allegations, leading to the company being acquitted of any wrongdoing. 3. To discharge or release someone from a duty, obligation, or debt. Example: The court acquitted the debtor from his financial obligations after considering his dire financial situation. 4. To demonstrate one’s innocence or prove oneself free from guilt or blame. Example: The defendant presented a strong alibi and multiple witnesses to acquit himself of the charges. 5. To achieve a favourable outcome or success in a challenging situation or endeavour. Example: Despite facing numerous obstacles, the team’s determination and hard work allowed them to acquit themselves admirably in the competition.
to pronounce not guilty of criminal charges.
To set free, release or discharge as from an obligation, burden or accusation. To absolve one from an obligation or a liability; or to legally certify the innocence of one charged with a crime.
- Behave in a certain manner.
- Pronounce not guilty of criminal charges.
To acquit someone means the court has decided the person is not guilty of the crime for which they have been accused and the court is “setting them free from the charge of the offence.” In other words, you have been found not guilty for the criminal indictment. An acquittal can be reached after both the prosecutor and defendant have presented their case at trial. An acquittal can be reached by a jury or a judge. Generally, if the defendant is acquitted by the jury the charges are not appealed. If a judge reaches an acquittal it may result in either a dismissal of the charges or a mistrial. Appeals can be made by the prosecution, however, if the jury convicts a defendant but the judge makes an acquittal.
If a person is acquitted for a crime they cannot be tried for the same crime a second time. A defendant’s acquittal will also stand if additional evidence is found at a later date. This law stands as a defence against unconstitutional government action.
Q: What is Acquit? A: Acquit is a legal term that means to declare someone not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. Q: How does the process of acquittal work? A: Acquittal occurs when a judge or jury finds that the evidence presented against the accused is insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Q: What is the difference between acquittal and dismissal? A: Acquittal is a verdict of not guilty, usually decided by a judge or jury. Dismissal, on the other hand, occurs when a case is terminated before reaching trial due to various reasons, such as lack of evidence or procedural errors. Q: Can a person be acquitted even if they are guilty? A: Yes, it is possible for a person to be acquitted even if they are guilty. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and if they fail to present enough evidence to convince the judge or jury of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the accused may be acquitted. Q: What happens after an acquittal? A: After an acquittal, the accused is considered not guilty of the charges brought against them. They are typically released from custody, and the case is closed. However, in some cases, the prosecution may have the option to appeal the acquittal. Q: Can a person be retried after being acquitted? A: In most jurisdictions, the principle of double jeopardy prevents a person from being retried for the same offense after being acquitted. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as if new evidence emerges or if the acquittal was due to jury tampering or misconduct. Q: What is a hung jury? A: A hung jury occurs when the jurors in a trial are unable to reach a unanimous decision on the defendant’s guilt or innocence. In such cases, a mistrial is declared, and the prosecution may choose to retry the case with a new jury. Q: Are there different types of acquittal? A: Yes, there are different types of acquittal. A general acquittal means the accused is found not guilty of all charges. A partial acquittal means the accused is found not guilty of some charges but guilty of others. Q: Can an acquittal be expunged from someone’s record? A: In some jurisdictions, an acquittal can be expunged from someone’s record, meaning it is erased or sealed from public view. However, the rules regarding expungement vary depending on the jurisdiction and
DismissThis site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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