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Simple English definitions for legal terms
motion for judgment of acquittal
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A quick definition of motion for judgment of acquittal:
Term: Motion for Judgment of Acquittal
Definition: A request made by a person accused of a crime to be found not guilty because there is not enough evidence to prove they committed the crime. This request can be made after the prosecution presents their case or after all evidence has been presented. If the request is granted, the government cannot appeal the decision.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: A motion for judgment of acquittal is a request made by a criminal defendant at the end of the government's case or the end of all evidence to be acquitted because there is no legally sufficient evidentiary basis on which a reasonable jury could return a guilty verdict. If the motion is granted, the government has no right of appeal. This motion is abbreviated as MJOA.
Example: During a trial, the prosecution presents all of their evidence against the defendant. After the prosecution rests their case, the defense attorney may make a motion for judgment of acquittal if they believe that the prosecution has not presented enough evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the judge grants the motion, the case is over, and the defendant is acquitted.
Example: In another trial, the defense presents their case, and the prosecution presents their rebuttal evidence. At the end of all evidence, the defense attorney may make a motion for judgment of acquittal if they believe that the prosecution has not presented enough evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the judge grants the motion, the case is over, and the defendant is acquitted.
These examples illustrate how a motion for judgment of acquittal can be made by the defense if they believe that the prosecution has not presented enough evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the judge grants the motion, the case is over, and the defendant is acquitted.