Legal Definitions - MJOA

Definition: MJOA stands for Motion for Judgment of Acquittal. It is a legal motion made by the defense in a criminal trial requesting the judge to acquit the defendant of the charges against them because the prosecution has not presented enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

• In a murder trial, the defense attorney may file an MJOA if the prosecution has not presented any evidence linking the defendant to the crime.
• In a theft case, the defense may file an MJOA if the prosecution has not presented any witnesses or physical evidence that proves the defendant stole anything.

These examples illustrate how an MJOA can be used in a criminal trial to challenge the prosecution's case. The defense is essentially arguing that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof and that the defendant should be acquitted. If the judge grants the MJOA, the case will be dismissed and the defendant will be free to go. If the judge denies the MJOA, the trial will continue and the defense will have the opportunity to present its own evidence and arguments.