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

Abstract

Abstract: In criminal case No. 07335 2021 00340, motivation is highlighted as a pillar of due process: it is the clear and legitimate justification of judicial decisions and guarantees the right to defense, transparency, and legality control, in accordance with Article 76.7.l of the Political Constitution of the State and international standards. Adequate motivation requires presenting proven facts, evaluating evidence, applying legal norms, and arriving at a legal conclusion without ambiguity, facilitating effective understanding and review. Adequate motivation provides consistency with the Constitution, internal logic, and conformity to the current legal framework. The judgment is clarified through an essential distinction: the ratio decidendi, the binding reason that supports the decision, versus obiter dicta, which are accessory statements without binding force but with persuasive value. Insufficient motivation can be absent, deficient, and exhibits defects such as inconsistency, incongruity, inattention, or incomprehensibility. These rulings allow for criticism through procedural means and can lead to annulment, constitutional actions, or disciplinary sanctions. Ultimately, it is emphasized that judicial justification is not merely a formality, but a fundamental constitutional requirement of the rule of law and a specific manifestation of the legal principle.