alibi defense

In one sentence

A claim that the defendant was somewhere else when the crime occurred.

Plain English

An alibi defense is a claim that the defendant could not have committed the crime because they were in a different location at the time it happened. The defendant must present evidence—such as witness testimony, video footage, or receipts—to prove they were elsewhere. If successful, an alibi defense completely eliminates the possibility of guilt.

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Example

A woman is accused of robbing a bank at 2 p.m., but she presents credit card receipts and witness testimony showing she was at a doctor's appointment across town at that exact time. Her alibi defense proves she couldn't have committed the robbery.

Used in a sentence

“The defendant's alibi defense relied on security camera footage from the airport showing he was boarding a flight when the burglary occurred.”

Related terms

Prosecution

The government's legal action to charge and try someone for a crime.

confession

A voluntary admission by someone that they committed a crime.

arrest warrant

A court order authorizing police to arrest a specific person suspected of a crime.

Sentencing

The judge's decision on punishment after a defendant is found guilty.

adjudication hearing

A court proceeding where a judge hears evidence and makes a formal decision about a legal matter.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.