What is the term for a voluntary admission of guilt by an offender?

The term for a voluntary admission of guilt by an offender is "confession." A confession occurs when a person acknowledges their involvement in an offense and accepts responsibility for their actions. This admission can be a crucial element in the legal process, influencing both the prosecution's case and the resulting legal outcomes. Confessions are typically made to law enforcement officers or during legal proceedings and can be used as evidence in court.

In contrast, indictment refers to a formal accusation initiated by a grand jury, a verdict is the decision made by a jury or judge regarding the guilt or innocence of a defendant, and an affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation, often used as evidence in legal proceedings. Each of these terms is distinct and serves a different purpose in the justice system, underscoring why confession specifically relates to the direct acknowledgment of guilt by the offender.