New York State Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is a confession?

1. A statement denying involvement in a crime

2. A statement admitting guilt by an accused person

3. A formal plea to the court

4. A claim of innocence by the accused

The correct answer is: A statement admitting guilt by an accused person

A confession is defined as a statement in which an individual admits to having committed a crime or wrongdoing. This admission of guilt typically involves a voluntary acknowledgment of the individual's involvement in illegal activities. The significance of a confession lies in its potential to serve as a critical piece of evidence in criminal proceedings, as it can greatly influence the outcome of a case. Other options do not align with the definition of a confession. A denial of involvement in a crime or claims of innocence are both statements that oppose guilt and do not reflect an admission. Likewise, a formal plea to the court does not inherently indicate an admission of guilt; it can encompass various pleas, such as "not guilty," which further underscores the importance of correctly identifying what constitutes a confession in legal terms. Thus, option B—acknowledging guilt by an accused person—accurately encapsulates what a confession is within the context of criminal law.