Acknowledgment n. 1 The recognition of a fact or the existence of an obligation and the acceptance of the accompanying legal responsibility. For example, a putative father may acknowledge a child as his during a paternity proceeding. 2 One's formal declaration in the presence of a notary public or other authorized individual that she has signed a deed or other document and that the signature is authentic.

Acquiescence n. Tacit or passive conduct that implies agreement or consent. For example, if one makes a statement and another is silent when an objection should be forthcoming, the second person's acquiescence to the statement may be inferred.

Acquit v. 1 In criminal law, to clear a person, to release or set him free, or to discharge him from an accusation of committing a criminal offense after a judicial finding that he is not guilty of the crime or after the court or prosecution determines that the case should not continue after the criminal trial has started. 2 In contract law, to pay or discharge a debt, duty, or a claim.

Acquittal n. 1 In criminal law, the legal finding, by judge or jury, that an accused person is not guilty of the crime he is charged with. Once the acquittal is reached, the defendant may not be prosecuted again for the same criminal act or transaction. 2 In contract law, the release or discharge from a debt or other contractual obligation.

Act 1 n. A statute. 2 n. Something done or performed. 3 v. The process of doing or performing.