Legal Doubt
/ˈliːɡəl daʊt/
Definitions
- (n.) A reasonable uncertainty regarding the guilt of a defendant, sufficient to prevent conviction in criminal law.
The jury acquitted the defendant because they had legal doubt about his involvement.
- (n.) Any uncertainty in legal interpretation or application that can affect the outcome of a case or legal decision.
The judge expressed legal doubt about the statute’s applicability in this case.
Forms
- legal doubts
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Legal doubt typically denotes a standard of proof in criminal cases; clarity in drafting should distinguish it from evidentiary uncertainty or procedural ambiguity.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.