What is the legal term for a statement by the accused acknowledging the crime?

A confession is a legal term used to describe a statement made by an accused individual in which they acknowledge their involvement in a crime. This admission can be crucial in legal proceedings as it serves as direct evidence of guilt. Confessions can occur in various forms, such as verbal admissions made to law enforcement or written statements, and they often carry significant weight in court.

Understanding the concept of confession is essential, especially in criminal law, as it can influence the outcome of a case dramatically. It reflects the accused’s recognition of their actions and can sometimes lead to plea bargains or affect sentencing.

The other terms—affidavit, testimony, and deposition—refer to different legal processes. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath, typically used as evidence in court. Testimony involves providing evidence as a witness in a legal proceeding, and a deposition is a formal statement taken under oath, often before a trial, used in the discovery process. While these terms relate to legal statements, they do not denote a direct acknowledgment of a crime by the accused, making confession the most accurate answer.