In a criminal proceeding, a formal finding of guilt is known as what?

A formal finding of guilt in a criminal proceeding is known as a conviction. This term refers specifically to the legal judgment rendered by a court that determines a defendant's guilt regarding the charges against them. Once a conviction occurs, it signifies that the defendant has been found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, whether through a trial verdict or a plea of guilty.

In contrast, arraignment refers to the court proceeding in which the defendant is formally presented with the charges and asked to enter a plea. Probation is a form of sentencing that allows an offender to remain in the community under certain conditions instead of serving time in prison. An appeal is a legal process through which a person can challenge a conviction or sentence in a higher court. These terms relate to different stages or aspects of the criminal justice process, highlighting the distinct role that a conviction plays as the formal outcome indicating guilt.