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

Abstract

Abstract: This research analyzes the reasoning in judgments issued by first-level judges in Ecuador, using as a case study a criminal judgment for the offense of illegal carrying of firearms, brought against N.N. The general objective of the study is to evaluate whether the judicial reasoning contained in the judgment meets the standards of correct and sufficient reasoning, in accordance with the Ecuadorian constitutional and legal framework. The research was conducted under a qualitative approach, using the analytical legal method. The sample consisted of a first-level judgment, selected through intentional sampling. The research techniques applied were documentary analysis and the case study, while the instruments used were the sufficient reasoning questionnaire and the correct reasoning questionnaire, applied directly to the content of the judicial decision. The results show that the analyzed judgment includes reasoning based on the presentation of facts and the application of legal rules; however, limitations were identified in the depth of the evidentiary analysis and in the explanation of the judicial reasoning, which affects full compliance with the required reasoning standard. In conclusion, the judgment partially meets the reasoning requirements established by the Ecuadorian legal system.