incriminating evidence

[ɪn-ˈkrɪ-mə-ˌnā-tiŋ ˈe-və-dens]
noun phrasepl: incriminating evidence (uncountable)
prova incriminadora
1. Evidence that tends to prove someone's guilt or involvement in a crime; facts or objects that suggest or demonstrate criminal responsibility
The detective discovered incriminating evidence at the crime scene that linked the suspect to the robbery.
O detetive descobriu prova incriminadora na cena do crime que ligava o suspeito ao roubo.
2. Material presented in court that implies culpability or wrongdoing
The incriminating evidence presented during the trial proved to be decisive in the conviction.
A prova incriminadora apresentada durante o julgamento foi decisiva para a condenação.
In both Brazilian and American legal systems, incriminating evidence plays a central role in criminal proceedings. In Brazil, the term 'prova incriminadora' is formally used in the criminal procedure code (Código de Processo Penal). In the USA, the concept is fundamental to the adversarial legal system and is protected under constitutional rules regarding evidence admissibility and the right to confront witnesses. The presentation and challenge of such evidence is a critical aspect of courtroom strategy in both cultures.
NYC Slang
smoking gun (colloquial equivalent for definitive incriminating evidence)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
damaging evidenceincriminating proofcompelling evidencedamning evidencecircumstantial evidence of guilt
Antonyms / Antônimos
exculpatory evidenceexonerating evidenceclearing evidencevindication

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
prova incriminadora
Standard term used in legal and criminal proceedings
São Paulo
prova incriminadora / evidência incriminadora
Both terms commonly used in legal documents and courts
Rio de Janeiro
prova incriminadora
Preferred in legal contexts; 'evidência' is also used colloquially
Portugal
prova incriminadora / prova inculpatória
'Inculpatória' is also used in Portuguese legal terminology

Related Words

forensic evidencephysical evidencewitness testimonycircumstantial evidencematerial evidenceadmissible evidenceproof beyond a reasonable doubtcriminal liability

Related Idioms & Phrases

a smoking gun
caught red-handed
the proof is in the pudding
damning evidence
case closed
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