What does 'corpus delicti' mean in legal terms?

The term 'corpus delicti' refers specifically to the principle in law that requires proof that a crime has been committed before an individual can be convicted of that crime. This concept validates the existence of the crime itself, which may consist of two elements: the occurrence of the event (the crime) and the existence of a certain relationship between the event and the accused. Establishing the corpus delicti is crucial in legal proceedings because it assures that an individual is not punished for an act that did not occur.

In the context of the provided choices, the correct answer accurately encapsulates this legal principle, which emphasizes the necessity of evidence demonstrating that a crime has indeed taken place. The other options do not align with this definition. For example, a document proving identity is unrelated to the evidence of a crime, while defenses in court focus on justifications or excuses for actions, and a judge's final decision pertains to the outcome of a trial rather than the foundational proof of a crime itself.