judgment

In one sentence

The court's final decision in a criminal case, determining guilt or innocence and imposing sentence.

Plain English

A judgment is the official decision a judge or jury makes at the end of a criminal trial. It states whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty and, if guilty, what the sentence will be (prison time, fines, probation, etc.). Once a judgment is entered, it becomes the court's official record and can be appealed, but it represents the resolution of the case at the trial level.

Ad slot

Example

After a two-week trial, the jury returned a guilty verdict, and the judge entered a judgment sentencing the defendant to five years in prison and three years of supervised release.

Used in a sentence

“The judgment was appealed on the grounds that the trial judge had made several errors in admitting evidence.”

Related terms

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

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

Bench Trial

A trial where a judge, not a jury, decides guilt or innocence.

Sentencing

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

appeal

A request to a higher court to review and overturn a lower court's decision.

criminal court

A court that handles cases involving alleged violations of criminal law and determines guilt or innocence.

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.