EXCULPATORY Meaning and
Definition
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The term "exculpatory" is an adjective derived from the word "exculpate." It refers to evidence or statements that tend to clear someone from blame, guilt, or fault in a particular situation. When evidence is considered exculpatory, it has the potential to absolve or excuse an individual from any wrongdoing or liability.
Exculpatory evidence is typically presented in legal contexts, particularly in criminal trials, where it can be crucial in determining a defendant's innocence or guilt. Such evidence may undermine the prosecution's case by introducing doubt or challenging the credibility of witnesses or the validity of the charges. It often helps establish an alternative explanation or provides an alibi for the accused, casting doubt on their involvement or innocence.
In the legal system, prosecutors are ethically obligated to provide any exculpatory evidence they possess to the defendant's attorney, as mandated by the United States Supreme Court in the landmark case Brady v. Maryland (1963). Failure to disclose exculpatory evidence, also known as a Brady violation, can compromise the fairness of the trial and violate the accused's constitutional rights.
Outside the realm of law, "exculpatory" can be used more broadly to describe any evidence, explanation, or factor that relieves someone from responsibility or guilt in various situations. It emphasizes the significance of evidence that points away from blame and can potentially exonerate an individual, mitigating their involvement or culpability in a given matter.
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Clearing from the charge of a fault.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EXCULPATORY
Etymology of EXCULPATORY
The word "exculpatory" is derived from the Latin term "exculpāre", which is a combination of two Latin elements - "ex", meaning "out" or "from", and "culpa", meaning "fault" or "blame". The verb "exculpāre" in Latin means "to free from blame" or "to clear from guilt". Eventually, this Latin term gave rise to the adjective "exculpātōrius", which meant "clearing from guilt" or "excusing". This adjective was later borrowed into English, giving us the term "exculpatory" with the meaning "tending to clear from fault or guilt" or "providing an excuse or justification".
Similar spelling words for EXCULPATORY
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