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

Abstract

Abstract: This research analyzes the judicial reasoning in a first-instance judgment issued within criminal proceedings for the crime of extortion in Ecuador. The study aimed to determine whether the judicial decision meets the standards for sufficient and correct reasoning established by the Constitution, case law, and legal doctrine. To achieve this objective, an analytical, descriptive, and documentary methodology was applied, based on a review of the selected judgment, the identification of its argumentative structure, and an evaluation of the factual and legal grounds employed by the presiding judge. The analysis confirmed that the ruling clearly sets out the proven facts, the assessment of the evidence, and the legal provisions applicable to the case, thereby making it possible to understand the rationale supporting the decision reached. The findings highlight the importance of judicial reasoning as a guarantee of due process, legal certainty, and effective judicial protection, as it enables the oversight of the legality of decisions and strengthens confidence in the administration of justice.