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Simple English definitions for legal terms
confess
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A quick definition of confess:
Confess: To confess means to admit that you did something wrong. In the legal world, it usually means admitting that you committed a crime. You can confess to the police or in court, but it has to be your choice to do so. Nobody can force you to confess. If you confess, it can be used against you in court. However, if you weren't told your rights when you were arrested, your confession might not count. Confess can also mean admitting to something in other situations, like saying you broke a vase or ate all the cookies.
A more thorough explanation:
Confess means to admit to doing something wrong. In legal terms, it usually refers to admitting guilt for a crime. A confession can be given to a police officer or in court, but it must be voluntary. This means that the confession cannot be forced or obtained through threats or torture.
If someone confesses to a crime, it can only be used as evidence in court if they were given their Miranda rights. These rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. If someone confesses without being given these rights, their confession may not be admissible in court.
Confess can also be used in other contexts. For example, in a civil case, a confession may refer to a statement against interest. This means that someone admits to something that is not in their best interest.
One example of a confession is when someone admits to stealing something. Another example is when someone confesses to cheating on a test. These examples illustrate how confessing means admitting to doing something wrong.