What is the term that refers to the body of evidence that constitutes a crime?

The term "Corpus Delicti" directly translates from Latin to "body of the crime," and is a legal concept that refers specifically to the essential facts that show a crime has occurred. It encompasses the evidence required to establish that a crime has been committed, as well as the elements that need to be demonstrated in court to achieve a conviction.

In practical terms, establishing corpus delicti involves proving two main components: that a certain result (such as a death or injury) occurred, and that this result was caused by someone's actions (meaning there was a criminal act). This term is foundational in criminal law, as it serves to ensure that a crime has occurred before an individual can be charged or convicted, thereby protecting against wrongful convictions based solely on confessions or circumstantial evidence without clear proof of the crime itself.

Understanding corpus delicti is crucial for law enforcement and legal professionals, as it establishes the ground upon which a case can be built. The other terms do not capture this specific legal definition or do not denote the concept of the evidence necessary to prove that a crime has occurred.