Definition of Absolution

In the civil law. A sentence whereby a party accused is declared innocent of the crime laid to his charge. In canon law. A juridical act whereby the clergy declare that the sins of such as are penitent are remitted. In French law. The dismissal of an ac-chsation. The term "acquitment" is employed when the accused is declared not guilty and "absolution" when he is recognized as guilty but the act is not punishable by law, or he is exonerated by some defect of intention or will. Merl. Report-; Bouvier.