ABSOLUTION

In the civil law. A sentence whereby a party accused le declared innocent ot the crime laid to his charge. In canon law, A juridical act whereby the clergy declare that the sins ot such as are· penitent are remitted. In French law. The dismi al ot an accusation. The term "acquitment" is employed when the accused is declared not guilty and "absolution" when he is recognizeq as guilty but the act 1s not punishable by law, or he is exonerated by some defect ot intention or will. Merl Repert.; Bouvier. [s. 16]