Impeachment vs. Conviction — What's the Difference?

Impeachment refers to the formal process where a legislative body levels accusations against a public official for misconduct. It is akin to an indictment in criminal law but does not equate to guilt. Conviction, on the other hand, is the actual finding of guilt, generally carried out by another legislative body or through a judicial process. Conviction comes after impeachment and trial, and it leads to penalties like removal from office.

In the United States, for example, impeachment of a President is initiated in the House of Representatives. The House presents and votes on articles of impeachment, but this does not mean the President is guilty of anything. Conviction takes place in the Senate, where a two-thirds majority vote is needed to confirm guilt and possibly remove the President from office. The Senate acts as a sort of jury in this case.

Impeachment usually involves political considerations, as it is often initiated by members of a legislative body. Because of its political nature, impeachment can sometimes occur even without a strong legal basis. Conviction, however, is a legal finding that generally follows strict procedures and requirements, such as a supermajority vote in the Senate for federal officials in the United States.

In a legal context outside of politics, the term "conviction" refers to the formal declaration of guilt by a court of law, often after a trial. Impeachment doesn't typically exist in this non-political context. Unlike impeachment, conviction in a court of law can result in various penalties including imprisonment, fines, or probation.