conviction

Conviction, in a legal context, refers to a formal judgment by a court that a person has committed a crime after trial or plea. It signifies that the evidence presented was sufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A conviction can result in penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. It is a final decision that impacts a person's criminal record and can influence future legal proceedings. The term underscores the official recognition of guilt following a legal process.