väljamõistmist

Väljamõistmist is an Estonian term that translates to "acquittal" or "discharge" in English legal contexts. It refers to the legal outcome where a defendant in a criminal case is found not guilty of the charges brought against them. This decision is typically made by a judge or jury after considering the evidence presented during a trial.

An acquittal means that the prosecution has failed to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It does not necessarily mean the defendant is innocent, but rather that the legal standard for conviction has not been met. The consequences of väljamõistmist are significant, as the defendant is released from any further legal proceedings related to those specific charges and cannot be tried again for the same offense under the principle of double jeopardy.

The process leading to väljamõistmist can involve various stages. It might occur at the pre-trial phase if a judge dismisses the case due to insufficient evidence or procedural errors. More commonly, it is the verdict reached at the conclusion of a trial. The specific legal procedures and terminology surrounding acquittal can vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction within Estonia, but the core meaning remains consistent: a formal finding of not guilty. This legal determination has profound implications for the individual's liberty and legal standing.