Legal Definitions - confessio in judicio

The Latin term confessio in judicio refers to a formal admission of guilt or responsibility made by an individual directly within a court proceeding. This type of confession is typically recorded as part of the official court record and is considered a powerful form of evidence.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Criminal Guilty Plea

  During a criminal trial for shoplifting, the defendant stands before the judge and formally states, "I plead guilty to the charge of petty theft."

  This is a clear instance of a confessio in judicio because the defendant is directly admitting guilt for the crime within the courtroom, as part of the official judicial process.

• Example 2: Civil Liability Admission

  In a civil lawsuit concerning a slip-and-fall incident, the owner of the property testifies under oath during the trial, "Yes, I admit that I was aware the floor was wet and failed to put up a warning sign."

  This demonstrates a confessio in judicio because the property owner is formally admitting responsibility for a key fact that contributes to their liability, directly within the court's proceedings.

• Example 3: Plea Bargain Acceptance

  A person accused of a felony agrees to a plea bargain. During the plea hearing, the judge asks, "Do you admit to the facts outlined in the lesser charge of misdemeanor assault?" and the person replies, "Yes, Your Honor, I do."

  This constitutes a confessio in judicio as the individual is formally acknowledging and admitting to the elements of the crime in open court, which is a critical step in accepting the plea agreement.