Legal Definitions - convict

Convict

The term "convict" can function as both a verb and a noun in legal contexts.

As a verb, "to convict" means to officially declare or prove that a person accused of a crime is guilty. This declaration typically occurs after a trial where a jury or judge finds the evidence sufficient, or when the defendant admits guilt through a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere (no contest).

As a noun, a "convict" refers to an individual who has been found guilty of a criminal offense. This status is established following a trial, a guilty plea, or a plea of nolo contendere.

Here are some examples to illustrate the use of "convict":

• Example 1 (Verb): After reviewing all the evidence presented during the trial, the jury deliberated for several hours before returning a verdict to convict the defendant of embezzlement.

  Explanation: In this scenario, "convict" is used as a verb, describing the action taken by the jury to officially declare the defendant guilty of the crime of embezzlement.

• Example 2 (Verb and Noun): Facing overwhelming evidence, the suspect chose to plead guilty to the charges of assault rather than go to trial. The judge then proceeded to convict him based on his plea, making him a convict.

  Explanation: Here, "convict" is first used as a verb to describe the judge's official declaration of guilt following the guilty plea. Subsequently, the individual is referred to as a "convict," a noun indicating his new legal status as someone found guilty of a crime.

• Example 3 (Noun): The former convict, having served his full sentence for grand theft auto, struggled to find employment due to his criminal record.

  Explanation: In this instance, "convict" is used as a noun to describe a person who has previously been found guilty of a crime and has completed their punishment. It highlights the lasting legal and social implications of having been convicted.