Legal Definitions - confessing error

Definition: Confessing error is a legal term used to describe a plea in which a person admits to making a mistake or error in their case. This plea is often used in response to an assignment of error, which is a claim made by the opposing party that there was a mistake made during the legal proceedings.

Example: During a trial, the defense attorney may make an assignment of error, claiming that the judge made a mistake in allowing certain evidence to be presented. In response, the prosecution may choose to confess error, admitting that the judge did make a mistake and that the evidence should not have been allowed.

Explanation: Confessing error is a way for a party to acknowledge that a mistake was made without having to go through a lengthy appeals process. By confessing error, the party is essentially admitting that the opposing party's claim of error is valid and that the mistake should be corrected. This can help to speed up the legal process and avoid unnecessary delays.