Different court systems have varying ways of determining guilt in criminal trials. In the US, a jury must find a defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Factors that may contribute to a guilty verdict include evidence quality and quantity, witness testimony, and defendant characteristics. The prosecution has the burden of proof and evidence can be […]
When accused of a crime, a person can plead not guilty, guilty, or no contest. Pleading guilty requires an admission of guilt and acceptance of punishment, while no contest acknowledges the possibility of conviction but does not admit guilt. A guilty plea must be accepted by the court and evidence presented. A no contest plea […]
A plea of not guilty is a response a defendant can give to a criminal charge. It allows the judge to decide how to proceed with the trial. A defendant may choose to enter a not guilty plea for legal strategy or to present their case before a jury. A person can reverse a plea […]
