Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

corpus delicti

Noun

/ˈkɔːr.pəs dɪˈlɪk.taɪ/

Definition

The body of evidence that must be present to prove that a crime has been committed.

Examples

The police found the corpus delicti, which included the weapon used in the crime.
In the absence of a corpus delicti, the case could not proceed to trial.
Understanding the corpus delicti is crucial for lawyers when building a defense.

Meaning

Literally translating to ‘body of the crime,’ corpus delicti refers to the essential elements or facts of a criminal case that must be established before a person can be convicted of a crime.