Motivación en las sentencias emitidas por los jueces de primer nivel en Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: The present work analyzes judicial reasoning in the Ecuadorian criminal process based on the study of Judgment No. 07281-2023-00616, issued in a case of alleged murder. The main objective is to examine judicial reasoning as a constitutional guarantee indispensable for the validity of jurisdictional decisions. From a theoretical dogmatic approach, the function of reasoning is studied as a mechanism of control, transparency, and legal rationality, as well as its close relationship with due process and the right to a defense. The work develops the main doctrinal and jurisprudential criteria that define sufficient reasoning, the structure of judicial reasoning, and the standards applicable to the assessment of facts and the application of law. Likewise, it identifies the defects that may affect reasoning, with emphasis on motivational deficiency due to insufficiency. With this theoretical framework, the selected judgment is critically examined to determine its correspondence with constitutional and doctrinal parameters. Finally, it concludes that a duly reasoned decision strengthens confidence in the administration of justice and guarantees respect for the procedural parties.