identification

In one sentence

The process of proving or confirming someone's identity, especially in criminal cases.

Plain English

Identification is how the prosecution proves that the defendant is the person who committed the crime. This can happen through eyewitness testimony, fingerprints, DNA evidence, photos, or other means that connect the defendant to the alleged offense. Strong identification evidence is crucial because the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and misidentification can lead to wrongful convictions.

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Example

A store clerk identifies the defendant as the person who robbed the register by picking him out of a police lineup. The clerk's identification, combined with security camera footage, helps establish that the defendant was present at the crime scene.

Used in a sentence

“The witness's identification of the suspect was challenged during cross-examination because the lighting in the store had been poor.”

Related terms

Arrest

The act of taking someone into police custody based on probable cause.

Circumstantial Evidence

Evidence that suggests guilt indirectly rather than proving it directly.

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

The highest standard of proof required to convict a defendant in a criminal trial.

alibi

Evidence that a defendant was somewhere else when the crime occurred.

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.

Felony

A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.

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.