What is a formal declaration that someone is guilty of a criminal offense called?

The term that describes a formal declaration that someone is guilty of a criminal offense is known as a conviction. A conviction occurs when a court determines that the evidence presented meets the legal standard of proof required for establishing guilt, which can happen either through a guilty plea or a verdict following a trial.

Understanding this concept is critical in the context of the criminal justice system, as a conviction has significant consequences, including sentencing and potential penalties that the convicted individual may face.

Other terms provided in the choices relate to different aspects of the legal process. For instance, a judgment refers to the official decision made by a court, which may not necessarily reflect guilt or innocence, while an indictment is a formal charge or accusation of a serious crime, typically issued by a grand jury. A trial verdict is the conclusion reached by a jury or judge regarding the guilt or innocence of the defendant during the trial, but it is the conviction that ultimately signifies the formal determination of guilt in the legal framework.